In the realm of women’s health, the often heard advice of “just do your Kegels” may not be the golden solution for everyone. Many women, especially during pregnancy and postpartum, grapple with tight pelvic floor muscles. Surprisingly, Kegels or tightening exercises can exacerbate the issue rather than alleviate it. So, how do you discern whether your pelvic floor is too tight, and what signs should you watch for? In this post, we delve into the nuances of pelvic health and shed light on when seeking professional guidance, specifically from a Women`s Health Physiotherapist, becomes crucial.
How to Know If Your Pelvic Floor Is Too Tight
Pooping Problems:
- Constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sensation of incomplete emptying
- Pencil thin or hard-to-empty stools
- Hemorrhoids
- Painful bowel movements
- Rectal pain
Peeing Problems:
- Straining or difficulty starting the urine stream
- Weak or splayed urine stream
- Burning during urination
- Sensation of incomplete emptying
- Frequent urge to urinate shortly after voiding
- Bladder pain or burning
Sexual Health Issues:
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain with initial or deeper penetration
- Feeling of tightness or tearing during sex
- Pain or throbbing after intercourse
- Sensation of hitting a wall during sex
- Burning or rawness at the opening
- Difficulty achieving orgasms
- Painful pelvic examinations
- Difficulty inserting tampons
Pelvic Pain:
- Vaginal pain
- Tailbone pain
- Pain with sitting
- Pain with tampon insertion
- Vulvar pain or burning
- Unexplained chronic “infections”
- Throbbing or heaviness in the pelvis
- Deep hip or high hamstring pain that persists despite stretching
Warning Signs:
- Symptoms worsening after kegels
- Inability to relax after a kegel contraction
When to Seek Pelvic Health Physiotherapy for tight pelvic floor
If any of these signs resonate with you or someone you know, it’s time to consider consulting a Women`s Health Physiotherapist. The one-size-fits-all approach to pelvic floor exercises is a myth. Instead, the focus should be on personalized care, understanding your body’s unique needs, and addressing issues through a tailored plan.
A word from a women`s health physio.
Your pelvic health is a vital component of overall well-being, and the path to optimal function isn’t always paved with kegels alone. Recognizing the signs of a too-tight pelvic floor and understanding when to seek professional guidance can make a significant difference in your journey toward a healthier, more comfortable life. Remember, pelvic floor exercises should be as unique as you are—seek the personalized care that will set you on the right path to pelvic health.
Whether you’re wanting to avoid pelvic floor problems or overcome them, I’m here for you.
