30 percent of women over the age of 35 suffer from minor to severe urine loss, partly due to weak pelvic floor muscles. In a small group, too tense pelvic floor muscles are precisely the cause of urine loss.
Who has too tense pelvic floor muscles?
Women of all ages can suffer from being too tense pelvic floor muscles. They lie like a hammock at the bottom of the pelvis and support the uterus and bladder.
Why are the pelvic floor muscles so tense?
There are several causes. The condition may be a result of chronically low backache or pelvic pain. Sometimes traumatic events in the past, such as sexual abuse, cause the pelvic floor muscles to tense unconsciously. Excessive training of the pelvic floor muscles – intended to prevent slackening – can also lead to the muscles tightening too much.
How bad is that?
An overactive pelvic floor can lead to urine leakage. Because the pelvic floor presses against the bladder, some women also have to urinate very often. Proper ‘urination’ is not possible due to the tense muscles, which in turn leads to bladder infections. You may also have pain during sex.
What can be done about it?
The pelvic physiotherapist can teach you to use and relax the pelvic floor muscles correctly. Exercises against too tight pelvic floor muscles are, for example, relaxation exercises and breathing exercises.
Sources):
- Plus Magazine
