Pelvic Floor Health

The pelvic floor is a critical, hammock-like structure of muscles at the base of the pelvis.

SA Stats:

- About 1/3 women suffers from UI. A study in KwaZulu-Natal found a 35% prevalence of UI among women, with 63% of those cases being stress urinary incontinence.

- In a study of 100 women in a primary healthcare setting, 86% had Stage III POP.

- Among women with POP, 57% reported overactive bladder (50% constipation, 30% anal incontinence, and 32% incomplete bladder emptying).

- About 15% of Black South African primiparous women (first-time mothers) sustain pelvic floor muscle (levator) trauma after their first vaginal delivery.

- Vaginal laxity is the most common symptom after childbirth, reported by 60.7% of women in a local study.

- 94.7% of pelvic health physiotherapists in a study felt there is a lack of available patient resources, and 61.1% reported having no educational material available.

- 75.8% of pelvic health physiotherapists are employed in the private sector.

Why Do We Need A Healthy PF:

- It holds up the bladder, uterus, and bowel, preventing pelvic organ prolapse.

- These muscles manage the sphincters for the bladder and bowel, allowing control over urination and defecation.

- It is part of the deep core, providing stability for the spine and trunk during movement.

- A healthy PF facilitates sexual arousal, contributes to erections in men, and is essential for strong orgasms in women.

- It supports the weight of a growing fetus and is vital for the process of vaginal delivery.

Did You Know?

Weakness—often caused by childbirth, aging, obesity, or chronic straining—can lead to stress incontinence (leaking when coughing/laughing), pelvic pain, and, in severe cases, pelvic organ prolapse.

How To Get Your PF Healthy:

- Incorporate supporting exercises like squats and bridges.

- A PF therapist will give you specific exercise to do daily.

- Breathing correctly plays a huge part in rehabilitation.

- Maintain a healthy weight & be consistent with your exercises - this isn’t a quick fix, but will be worth it!

If you are still struggling, experience pain or severe symptoms, contact a PF Therapist here -

www.sanalifestyle.co.za