Would you wait 7 years to go to the doctor about an ongoing cold? No, after a couple of weeks you would get fed up and get help.

Research has shown that, on average, women wait 7 years before seeking help with a pelvic floor that leaks or pelvic pain or the sudden need to go to the toilet and having to dash to get there.

So why do women wait so long to seek specialist help about their pelvic floor struggles? I chatted with Sundeep Watkins, a women’s health physiotherapist, to understand more about the importance of why we should get help as soon as we notice a change in our pelvic health.

WHERE IS MY PELVIC FLOOR?

Your pelvic floor is the muscles which run from your pubic bone at the front of your pelvis to the tailbone, at the back of your pelvis. It supports your womb, bladder and bowel. Like any other muscles in your body, it is important to keep these muscles strong & flexible, so you can carry on walking, running, jumping and sneezing with confidence with no unexpected surprises!

WHAT AFFECTS WOMEN’S PELVIC FLOOR?

You can experience a change in your pelvic floor at any stage of life and with any change in your life; such as a change in your exercise routine or weight gain, hormonal changes from pregnancy or entering the menopause.

Get more insights from Sundeep about the changes women experience in her lifetime here!

So, your pelvic floor function can change due to a range of different reasons, but what happens when these muscles become weaker?

I have had the pleasure of teaching so many different women, and many have had different experiences when they start losing control of their pelvic floor muscles – such as a higher chance of having a prolapse and a lack of confidence when it comes to intercourse. The most common cause is a lack of bowel and bladder control, known as incontinence (when you can’t hold on when needing the toilet, resulting in a leak). So many women experience this, although it is common it is NOT NORMAL!

Listen to what Sundeep had to say about the impacts of a weaker pelvic floor and incontinence!

WHERE CAN I GET HELP?

If you know that your pelvic floor is not as reliable as it once was, it is time to get some expert advice so you can carry on living the life you love. Just like all other body parts, your core and pelvic floor are so important to keep strong and healthy!

You are welcome to get in touch with me for a free 15 minute consultation and I can advise you on the best next step.

What to expect from a Women’s Health Physiotherapist appointment?

You can listen to my whole conversation with Sundeep here…enjoy and spread the word. Never hesitate to get in contact with us if you have any questions regarding your pelvic health, that is what we are here for x