Overreactive Pelvic Floor

24 Sept

Written By Helen N

An overactive pelvic floor refers to a condition where the muscles of the pelvic floor are overly tight and tense. It can lead to problems including pelvic pain, urinary issues, bowel problems, pain during sex and lower back pain. It can affect both men and women, though the symptoms and underlying causes can be different.

In men, the symptoms can look like pelvic pain, discomfort during ejaculation, urinary and bowel movement issues. It can be caused by prostatitis, pelvic injuries and chronic tension related to stress or anxiety.

In women, the symptoms can appear as pelvic pain, urinary issues, pain during sex and menstrual cycle. It can be caused by childbirth trauma, hormonal changes, pelvic surgeries and chronic conditions like endometriosis or vulvodynia.

manage strategies

There are various ways to manage an overreactive pelvic floor and this can depend on personal preference. Some helpful strategies often tried are:

Pelvic floor physical therapy: A physiotherapist who specialises in pelvic floor rehabilitation can assist by teaching you exercises and techniques to help relax and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Breathing exercises: Diaphragmatic breathing or deep breathing can help reduce tension in the pelvic area. Focus on breathing deeply into the abdomen, allowing the pelvic floor to relax with each exhale.
Stretching and relaxation techniques: Gentle stretches targeting the hips and lower back can alleviate tension. Yoga and guided relaxation exercises can also be beneficial.
Reformer Pilates: Develop mindfulness of your body and muscle activation, using controlled movements to strengthen the pelvic floor and core muscles without adding excessive tension, and stretching and lengthening reduces the tightness of the pelvic floor.
Heat therapy: Applying heat can help relax tight muscles and can be done using a warm towel or heating pad.

If some of the symptoms above feel relatable to you, it could be a good idea to talk to your doctor or a physiotherapist to assist in offering you treatment options.