Pelvic-floor weakness can affect how well you control your bladder.
The pelvic-floor muscles play an important role in bladder control. When they become weak or do not activate effectively, leakage and other changes in control can follow.
Understanding the Problem
Pelvic-floor weakness can show up as changes in bladder control.
The pelvic-floor muscles help support bladder control and respond when pressure increases during everyday movement. When those muscles are weak or do not activate effectively, it may become harder to prevent leakage.
- Leakage when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising
- Relying on pads or liners because of bladder leaks
- Noticing that bladder control has changed over time
- Avoiding certain activities because you’re concerned about leakage
Pelvic-floor function is about more than strength.
Strong pelvic-floor muscles are important, but effective bladder control also depends on when those muscles activate and how well they coordinate with the nervous system.
Pelvic-floor weakness or changes in function can develop for different reasons, including pregnancy and childbirth, aging, pelvic surgery, or repeated strain. Bladder-control symptoms can also have other causes, which is why the symptoms you notice do not always tell the whole story.
When pelvic-floor function is affecting bladder control
The Pelvic Floor Restoration Program is a noninvasive treatment approach focused on pelvic-floor muscle function and neuromuscular control.
Talk with us about what you’re experiencing.
If leakage or changes in bladder control are affecting everyday life, start with a consultation to discuss your symptoms and learn more about your options.