Men Have Pelvic Floors Too

Pelvic health concerns are often talked about in the medical community, but despite affecting everyone’s well-being, the discussion often revolves around women more so than men. So, pull up a chair gentlemen and let’s talk about it!

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs (in men, the bowel and bladder) and their function. These muscles attach at the pubic bone in the front and run all the way back to the coccyx. When these muscles are weak or too tight, it can cause pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic health rehabilitation is helpful when pelvic pain, including chronic prostatitis, testicular, and penile pain syndromes, is present and useful after prostatectomy to improve urinary continence and erectile dysfunction.

What to expect from an initial visit?

A pelvic health physiotherapist will review your health history, listen to your concerns, and assess the function of your pelvic floor: ability to contract, relax, sensation, and coordination. To evaluate the pelvic floor and diagnose the problem, the therapist will use internal and external manual techniques (an internal exam is not always necessary and is only performed with your consent.)

During an assessment, don't hesitate to ask questions - the therapist is specialized in treating pelvic health and equipped to answer your questions. The goal is to provide a safe environment to discuss and treat sensitive issues.

In addition to concerns mentioned above, challenges with pelvic floor dysfunction may include: chronic constipation, nocturia, and post-void dribbling. Specialized physiotherapy is the first line of defense. With an individualized treatment plan, proper technique, and exercise, improving your pelvic floor is well within your reach.

Is pelvic health rehabilitation right for you?

If you experience a sudden change in bowel, bladder, or sexual function, a visit to your doctor is the first step. It is important to see whether a medical problem, like infection, is the cause; your doctor can rule this out with necessary tests. If infection is not the culprit, then pelvic health rehabilitation is the right approach.

Learn more about pelvic health services at Lifemark and get in touch with your pelvic floor! https://www.lifemark.ca/services/pelvic-health