Pelvic floor dysfunction is far more common than most people realise, yet misconceptions continue to prevent many from seeking help. Here are five of the most widespread myths – and the facts behind them.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is surprisingly common, affecting millions of people around the world. Yet despite its prevalence, it remains one of the most misunderstood areas of health. When the muscles of the pelvic floor become weakened, overactive, or poorly coordinated, they can affect everything from bladder and bowel control to core stability and sexual wellbeing.
Unfortunately, widespread myths and misconceptions often stop people from seeking the support they need. In the spirit of raising awareness, let’s set the record straight on five of the most common pelvic floor myths.
Myth 1: Pelvic Floor Problems Only Affect Women
This is perhaps the most persistent misconception of all. While pelvic floor issues are frequently linked to pregnancy and menopause, they are by no means exclusive to women.
Men can experience pelvic floor dysfunction too, with symptoms including erectile difficulties, problems with ejaculation, and chronic pelvic pain. Beyond gender, athletes involved in high-impact sports such as running, gymnastics, and CrossFit can also be affected. The repeated downward force generated during these activities places significant strain on the pelvic floor, which over time can lead to muscle fatigue and dysfunction.
The reality is that anyone – regardless of age, gender, or fitness level – can develop pelvic floor issues.
Myth 2: Pelvic Floor Issues Will Resolve on Their Own
It’s tempting to hope that bladder leaks or pelvic discomfort will simply go away with time. In some mild cases, symptoms may improve – but for many people, pelvic floor dysfunction does not resolve without intervention and can actually worsen if left unaddressed.
The encouraging news is that effective treatments are available. Pelvic floor physiotherapy, targeted exercises, and in some cases medication can deliver meaningful, lasting results. Most people who commit to a structured treatment plan begin to notice improvements within a few months. The key takeaway? Don’t wait and hope for the best – seek professional guidance early.
Myth 3: Bladder Leaks Are Just a Normal Part of Getting Older
Pelvic floor care is important at every stage of life
While it’s true that the risk of incontinence increases with age, leaking urine is not an inevitable consequence of growing older. This myth is particularly harmful because it discourages people from seeking treatment for a condition that is, in most cases, highly manageable.
Several factors can contribute to bladder control issues as we age, including hormonal changes, reduced muscle tone, and lifestyle habits. However, a healthcare professional can help identify the specific causes and recommend an appropriate combination of exercises, behavioural strategies, and treatments to significantly improve symptoms.
Accepting leaks as “just part of life” means missing out on solutions that could make a real difference to your quality of life.
Myth 4: If You Don’t Have Symptoms, You Don’t Need to Worry About It
This is a bit like saying you don’t need to brush your teeth unless you have a toothache. Preventative care matters.
Looking after your pelvic floor isn’t only for those already experiencing problems – it’s important for everyone. Just as we invest in cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength, maintaining pelvic floor health supports overall physical wellbeing and can help prevent issues from developing in the first place.
Simple, proactive steps can make a significant difference: regularly practising pelvic floor exercises, maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and paying attention to your bladder and bowel habits. Think of it as an investment in your future self.
Myth 5: Kegel Exercises Don’t Really Work
Kegel exercises – the practice of consciously contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles – are one of the most well-established and evidence-supported approaches to pelvic floor health. So why do some people feel they don’t work?
The answer usually comes down to technique. Many people struggle to identify the correct muscles to engage during a Kegel. Without proper guidance, it’s easy to inadvertently activate the wrong muscle groups (like the glutes or abdominals) and feel like the exercises aren’t achieving anything.
This is where tools like Empelvic can help. Designed by a clinician, the Empelvic training cushion uses tactile pressure combined with guided breathwork to help you locate and activate the right muscles with confidence. Available in variations for both men and women, it takes the guesswork out of pelvic floor training and helps you build a consistent, effective practice.
If you’ve been trying on your own without results, or if you’re dealing with ongoing symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult a pelvic health physiotherapist. They can assess your technique, identify any underlying issues, and create a personalised plan to get you on the right track.
