Pelvic floor weakness
A weakened pelvic floor can lead to a range of issues, from bladder leaks and reduced bowel control to feelings of heaviness, decreased confidence with exercise or reduced sexual satisfaction. Many people first notice changes after pregnancy, childbirth, or with age, but weakness can occur at any stage of life.
Symptoms of pelvic floor weakness
Pelvic floor weakness can present as urinary incontinence (especially stress leaks), difficulty controlling wind or stool, vaginal laxity, or a sensation of heaviness in the pelvis. Some may also notice reduced sexual satisfaction or difficulty achieving orgasm. Clinically, weakness may be due to overstretched, overtightened or underactive muscles, connective tissue changes, or nerve injury. Contributing factors include pregnancy and vaginal delivery, peri or postmenopause (oestrogen decline), obesity, chronic constipation or cough, heavy lifting (with poor intra-abdominal pressure control) and pelvic surgery.
Treatments for pelvic floor weakness
Pelvic health physiotherapy forms the foundation of care : focusing on assessment, tailored exercise programmes, and education to rebuild strength, coordination, and endurance. Treatment may include manual therapy to release tension or optimise muscle activation, alongside advice on posture, breathwork, and daily habits to reduce strain and promote rehabilitation.
For some individuals, the Emsella chair can be introduced as an adjunct to physiotherapy. The Emsella chair uses high-intensity electromagnetic stimulation to activate and strengthen the pelvic floor beyond what voluntary contractions can achieve. This technology-based treatment can help accelerate progress, enhance muscle tone, and support your overall recovery and confidence.
