The pelvic floor

Mums know to expect a lack of sleep after having children, but the lack of bladder control is not so commonly talked about. Research shows that over 90% of women who have stress incontinence three months after giving birth will still have the problem 5 years later unless they strengthen their pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a large hammock of muscles attached from the front of the pubic bone to the tail end of the spine. Openings from the bladder, bowels and uterus all pass through the pelvic floor, which supports the pelvic organs.

Pelvic Floor Excercise is a specialist pelvic floor exercise website and online store. The site provides extensive research-based information and resources on effective pelvic floor exercises.

The Total Control Pelvic Pyramid Workout DVD is one of the many products exclusively available. It contains a medically-based fitness program developed by doctors, physiotherapists and fitness experts.

The program teaches women how to isolate, engage and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and includes an effective full-body resistance workout. The Total Control Pelvic exercises are all floor-based, can be done anywhere, and are suitable for women before and during pregnancy, and after giving birth. 

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Always consult your doctor if you or your child is suffering any medical complaint. Any websites referred to by Australian Family contain information moderated by government and medical institutions or organisations.

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, October 2008. Updated July 2009.