Pelvic floor health is a practical concern for many pregnant people, but it is not an unavoidable part of pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and practicing pelvic floor exercises can lower the risk of issues like urinary leakage and organ prolapse. This guidance aligns with the approach often shared by reputable health centers.
The pelvic floor is the layer of tissue that supports the uterus, bladder, colon, and rectum. When these muscles or their nerves are injured, discomfort can arise, along with urinary incontinence and the possibility of organ sagging. Understanding this helps explain why some individuals experience pelvic discomfort during pregnancy and after delivery.
Research indicates that the likelihood of pelvic floor dysfunction increases with the number of vaginal births. Yet many pregnant people notice pelvic floor symptoms before giving birth. Extra weight gained during pregnancy adds pressure to the pelvic floor, heightening the chance of urinary leakage. Constipation, which is common in the third trimester, also places added strain on these muscles.
During pregnancy there are notable hormonal shifts as well. The placenta releases a hormone that loosens ligaments in the pelvis and softens the cervix in preparation for birth. While this natural process cannot be stopped, several modifiable risk factors can be addressed. Avoiding tobacco and minimizing heavy lifting are steps that may help reduce strain on the pelvic area.
The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that pelvic floor disorders are not inevitable during pregnancy. Like taking prenatal vitamins and limiting alcohol, women and pregnant people can lower risk through steady exercise, a balanced diet, and attending prenatal classes. These programs often include guided stretching and breathing techniques that coordinate the respiratory diaphragm with the pelvic floor during labor. Practices such as pregnancy yoga and perineal massage are used by some to prepare the pelvic muscles and may reduce injury risk during birth. When performed correctly, Kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic floor, but misexecution is common, so consulting a physiotherapist or pelvic health clinician is a prudent first step.
There have been discussions in the field about new risk factors for heart health in women, underscoring how interconnected overall health is with pelvic health. This broader context reinforces why maintaining regular, balanced activity and wellness checks is valuable for expectant people.