Video: how to find and contract your pelvic floor

Pelvic health isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of physiotherapy, but to Aedin and me, it’s a HUGE deal.

We’ve noticed both men and women seem to just accept incontinence and loss of sexual function as normal…

“I’ve had three kids – I expected this…”

“It’s my age…”

But the truth is, it isn’t normal.

And anyone who’s experiencing issues with bladder, bowel or sexual function, probably needs help from a physio.

Now I know seeking that help can feel embarrassing or awkward… It takes women an average five years to find support for an incontinence problem.

Whereas our treatment to reverse that problem usually takes just a few months.

(If this is the first time you’re hearing that physios can treat pelvic problems, I hear you – it’s relatively unknown. But to be honest, I have no idea how I ever successfully treated backs and hips before doing this specialist training! Everything makes so much more sense now.)

Because good bladder, bowel and sexual function are crucial to enjoying life – and the older I get, the more passionate I feel that everyone can live that out without shame or fear.

No longer needing to get up to go to the loo four times a night…

Or having to wear pads or stay close to a toilet…

No longer worrying about the pain they might feel during sex…

Or afraid they’ll leak or prolapse if they go for a run…

If any of those fears sound familiar to you, chances are we can help, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there’s anything you’re worried about.

Often, kegal exercises form a part of the plan – for both men and women. But frequently, our patients who’ve tried them in the past haven’t had much joy.

It’s no wonder either – you can’t see inside down there and it’s hard to feel the muscle (and most people aren’t comfortable asking friends if they think they’re doing it right!!).

So to help, I’ve recorded a quick video showing you how to find and contract the pelvic floor – give it a watch at the top of this page.

Louise x