Did you know that a strong pelvic floor can significantly improve your quality of life? Often overlooked, pelvic health plays a critical role in bladder control, core stability, posture, and sexual wellness—and it's important at every stage of life, not just during or after pregnancy. In this post, we’ll explore why pelvic health matters, how to recognize signs of a weak pelvic floor, and what you can do to strengthen it. Whether you're in your 20s or navigating menopause, improving your pelvic floor strength can help you feel more confident, comfortable, and in control.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum—playing a key role in bladder control, organ support, and sexual function. Over time, these muscles can weaken due to factors like aging, pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes, surgery, or chronic straining. While symptoms like leakage or pelvic pressure can be frustrating, they’re often treatable. Dr. Leveno, a board-certified OB-GYN practicing in Medical City Plano, offers expert, personalized care to help restore pelvic strength and improve your quality of life.
Why Pelvic Health Matters at Every Age
Pelvic health isn’t just a concern for postpartum women — it’s a lifelong consideration.
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Adolescence: Understanding pelvic anatomy and promoting healthy habits early helps prevent future problems. Teaching young women about posture, movement, and core strength can set the foundation for lifelong pelvic health.
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Pregnancy and Postpartum: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor supports extra weight and undergoes significant strain. After childbirth, many women experience weakened muscles, leading to incontinence or discomfort. Recovery exercises and therapy can speed healing and improve strength.
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Menopause: Hormonal changes can decrease muscle elasticity and tone. Pelvic floor exercises and hormone support during this time can help reduce symptoms like prolapse or bladder leaks.
Signs of a Weak Pelvic Floor
Many women experience symptoms but don’t connect them to pelvic floor dysfunction. Common signs include:
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Leaking urine when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise
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A heavy or dragging sensation in the pelvic area
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Discomfort or pain during intercourse
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Difficulty emptying your bowels or bladder
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Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to “just live with it.” Dr. Leveno specializes in identifying and treating pelvic floor concerns in women of all ages.
Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor
Improving pelvic floor strength doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few proven ways to take control of your pelvic health:
1. Kegel Exercises
Kegels are one of the best exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. To do a proper Kegel:
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Identify the correct muscles by stopping urination midstream.
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Squeeze those muscles and hold for 3–5 seconds, then relax.
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Aim for 10–15 reps, three times per day.
2. Core Strengthening Activities
Workouts like yoga and Pilates build core strength and posture, both of which support a healthy pelvic floor.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight can put stress on your pelvic floor. A balanced diet and regular physical activity help relieve that pressure.
4. Practice Good Posture
Slouching weakens core and pelvic muscles. Try to sit and stand tall, keeping your spine aligned and pelvis neutral.
5. Lift Smart
If you lift heavy items, use proper form. Engage your core, bend your knees, and avoid straining your back or abdomen.
When to See a Professional
If you’ve tried exercises but still experience symptoms, it may be time to see a specialist. At Dr. Leveno’s office in Plano, we offer personalized pelvic floor evaluations and treatments including:
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Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises and hands-on techniques from a licensed therapist can dramatically improve muscle tone and function. -
Hormonal Support
For postmenopausal women, hormone therapy may help restore tissue strength and reduce symptoms. -
Lifestyle Guidance
From nutrition to movement habits, we help create a care plan that works for your body and lifestyle.
Your Pelvic Health Journey Starts Here
Taking care of your pelvic floor is an investment in your future health, comfort, and confidence. Whether you're managing symptoms or looking to prevent them, knowledge and action go hand in hand. And remember — you don’t have to go through it alone. Dr. Leveno and our compassionate team are here to support you with expert care, education, and treatment options that are tailored to your unique needs.