Why is a strong pelvic floor so important during and after pregnancy?

The pelvic floor is an important sheet of muscle in the pelvis. It is especially important during pregnancy and following childbirth, as it supports the wall of the vagina. In her latest online article, consultant urogynaecologist and obstetrician Miss Victoria Asfour tells us how to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can provide a wide range of benefits during and after pregnancy.

What exactly is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a sheet of muscle supporting the walls of the vagina. The vaginal walls support the correct position of the bladder and the bowel. The muscles controlling the bladder and bowel are located in the pelvic floor.

Why is a strong pelvic floor important in pregnancy?

A moderately strong pelvic floor and knowledge of pelvic floor exercises prior to childbirth can help with recovery after birth.

What causes a weak pelvic floor?

The strain on the pelvic floor from constipation, chronic coughing, pregnancy and birth can cause it to weaken, and thus lead to symptoms such as urinary incontinence and prolapse.

How can you keep your pelvic floor strong during pregnancy?

Getting introduced to pelvic floor exercise training can help maintain and increase your pelvic floor strength during pregnancy. You can ask your doctor to show you how to do these exercises. 

When should you start doing pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy?

You can start pelvic floor exercises at any time during pregnancy or shortly following childbirth.

Does the exercise plan change through the pregnancy?

This varies with individual patients. A treatment plan for people with pelvic floor weakness is best supervised by a specialist physiotherapist.

A commonly asked question is: "How can I remember to do my pelvic floor exercises?" or “What advice do you have for women who find it difficult to incorporate these exercises into their routine?”

There is an excellent App called the Squeezy App that helps to remind you to do your pelvic floor exercises. Alternatively, one could set an alarm clock three times a day at a time of convenience to do them.

Should pelvic floor exercises be continued after pregnancy?

Yes, particularly if there are signs of pelvic floor weakness. This can help prevent symptoms such as urinary incontinence.

Miss Victoria Asfour is a consultant urogynaecologist and obstetrician. If you would like to book a consultation with Miss Asfour you can do so today via her Top Doctors profile