Childbirth and the menopause are by no means the only causes of weak pelvic floor muscles in women. It can result in uterine prolapse and incontinence. The best prevention: strengthen the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor sits like a taut cloth between the pelvic bones and the pubic bone and ischial tuberosities in the buttocks and holds the uterus, bladder and other abdominal organs in place.
Pregnancy and childbirth, severe obesity or years of heavy physical labor can weaken the muscles and connective tissue of the pelvic floor. The menopause and the associated drop in oestrogen levels, as well as smoking, chronic coughing or simply a genetic predisposition put additional strain on the pelvic floor. The causes already suggest it: A weak pelvic floor is a particular issue for women. But in rare cases, men can also be affected.
“In women, a weakened pelvic floor can lead to prolapse of the uterus, bladder or part of the bowel,” explains Cornelia Betschart, Deputy Director of the Department of Gynecology and Co-Head of the Continence and Pelvic Floor Center at the University Hospital Zurich. The most common consequences are incontinence or problems with urination, because the bladder bends downwards and some of the urine remains in the bladder. “Especially if urine remains in the bladder, this favors the development of bladder infections,” Betschart points out.
“Around 50 percent of all women are affected by uterine prolapse or bladder prolapse, although many only develop it at an older age,” says Betschart. Unfortunately, this topic is still often taboo. “Many women simply take it for granted or get used to the circumstances.”
