Men also have a pelvic floor
The importance of these muscles is often underestimated by men. However, in cases of incontinence following prostate surgery or erectile dysfunction, the pelvic floor plays a key role. Targeted exercises are worthwhile.
Let's hear it for the pelvic floor
Its layers of tissue and muscle keep our organs in place in the abdomen and our bladder and intestines from leaking. It contributes a lot to our well-being. A little exercise can help keep it stable for years to come.
The pelvic floor in women
In women, the pelvic floor ensures that the bladder, uterus, vagina and intestines stay where they're supposed to. Pregnancy, childbirth, obesity and age all lead to a gradual weakening of the pelvic floor.
What are the signs of a weak pelvic floor?
The first sign is often slight urinary incontinence. However, this is easily treatable with targeted exercises. In severe cases, the uterus, bladder or intestine can sink lower into the pelvis. This can lead to urinary or faecal incontinence.
Pelvic floor exercise for at home or on the go:
- Stand up straight with your legs apart and put both hands on your buttocks.
- Draw the centre of your pelvic floor upwards and inwards while exhaling. The muscles in your buttocks should stay relaxed the entire time. You will be able to feel this with your hands.
- Minus the part about putting your hands on your buttocks, this exercise is also ideally suited for when you're out and about.
Exercise device for a strong pelvic floor
A pelvic floor trainer with success monitoring via an app makes the exercises into a game. If you have outpatient supplementary insurance with Sympany, we will cover part of the costs if prescribed by a doctor.
