The pelvic floor is a fundamental but often underestimated part of our body. It controls vital functions, such as urinary and fecal continence, support of the pelvic organs, and also plays an important role in our sexual life. However, it is common for this area not to receive the attention it deserves until problems occur, such as urinary incontinence, prolapses, or other disorders.
Understanding the importance of the pelvic floor
The pelvic floor is made up of a group of muscles and connective tissues found in the lower part of the pelvis. These muscles hold the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum, in place and help control urination and defecation. They also play a crucial role in sexual functions, as they are involved in erection in men and sexual arousal in women.
Despite its importance, the pelvic floor is a part of the body which is often neglected. Many people are not aware of the existence of these muscles, much less how to properly care for them. However, when the pelvic floor does not function properly, a series of problems can arise that significantly affect a person's quality of life.
The extremes in pelvic floor care
Realizing the importance of the pelvic floor, some people may fall into the trap of extremes in their care. On the one hand, there are those who completely ignore this area of their body, which can lead to muscle weakness, urinary incontinence, prolapses, and other problems. On the other hand, there are those who become so obsessed with strengthening the pelvic floor that they can overload it and cause more harm than good.
The danger of ignorance
The lack of knowledge regarding the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor is a common problem that can have negative health consequences. When we don't know how this area of our body works, we are more likely to neglect its care. This can lead to loss of muscle tone, which in turn results in problems such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
In addition, lack of awareness of the pelvic floor can lead to performing inappropriate exercises that, far from strengthening these muscles, can weaken them even more. For example, performing Kegel exercises incorrectly or excessively can overtighten the muscles and cause dysfunction.
Balance in pelvic floor care
To maintain the health of the pelvic floor , it is important to find a balance in your care. This involves knowing the anatomy and function of these muscles, as well as adopting healthy habits that keep them strong and flexible without subjecting them to excessive stress.
Tips for taking care of the pelvic floor in a balanced way
1. Moderate Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises are an effective way to strengthen the pelvic floor, but it is important to perform them moderately and appropriately. Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, as if you were stopping the flow of urine. It is important not to overload these muscles, as doing so could weaken them instead of strengthening them.
2. Maintaining a healthy weight
Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor, weakening the muscles and increasing the risk of urinary incontinence and other problems. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce this pressure and strengthen the pelvic floor.
3. Avoid constipation
Chronic constipation can put pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to the development of problems such as pelvic organ prolapse. Eating a diet rich in fiber, drinking enough water, and practicing healthy bowel habits can prevent constipation and protect the health of your pelvic floor.
4. Consult a specialist
If you experience problems with your pelvic floor, such as urinary incontinence, prolapses or other worrying symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. A physiotherapist specialized in pelvic floor or a gynecologist can evaluate your situation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Conclusions
The pelvic floor is an essential part of our body that deserves to be cared for and kept in balance. Ignoring this area or becoming excessively obsessed with strengthening it can lead us to fall into the trap of extremes, with negative consequences for our health and quality of life. With knowledge, awareness and healthy habits, we can maintain the health of our pelvic floor in a balanced way and prevent the appearance of problems.