“Do men have a pelvic floor?”. We get asked this all the time and the simple answer is Yes! In discussions about pelvic floors, the focus often shifts towards women, especially in the context of pregnancy and childbirth. However, it's crucial to recognize that men also have a pelvic floor and people are often surprised to learn that in our practice about 30% of our clients are men. In this blog post, we'll delve into the male pelvic floor, its importance, and ways to maintain its health in an attempt to normalize the conversation about pelvic floor dysfunction in men.
Anatomy of the Male Pelvic Floor:
The male pelvic floor consists of a network of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder and rectum. These muscles play a key role in urinary and bowel control, sexual function, and stability of the pelvic region.
Functions of the Male Pelvic Floor:
Urinary and Bowel Control: The pelvic floor muscles help control the release of urine and stool, contributing to continence and preventing issues with leaking urine.
Sexual Function: These muscles are involved in erectile function, orgasm and ejaculation, influencing sexual health and satisfaction.
Pelvic Stability: The pelvic floor provides support to the spine and helps maintain balance and stability in the pelvic region.
Common Issues and Challenges:
Incontinence: Men can experience urinary incontinence due to factors such as aging, prostate issues, or pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. This is also extremely common post prostatectomy.
Pelvic Pain: Chronic pelvic pain in men may be associated with pelvic floor muscle tension or dysfunction. It can manifest as penile pain, tailbone pain, testicular pain
Sexual Dysfunction: Pelvic floor issues can contribute to erectile dysfunction or other sexual difficulties.
Maintaining Male Pelvic Floor Health:
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Just as women benefit from pelvic floor exercises, men can also benefit from focusing on improving their pelvic floor muscles control, coordination, and function.
Prostate Health: Regular check-ups for prostate health are essential, as prostate issues can impact the male pelvic floor.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity contribute to overall pelvic floor health.
Sadly, we often hear from men, they are unsure of what to do. They have gone to countless medical professionals with minimal to no explanation of how to handle their symptoms. Many have expressed feeling hopeless in finding results. A pelvic floor therapist is the most qualified individual to evaluate and treat the pelvic floor. In our clinic we often see that changes in pelvic floor muscles, core and lower extremities can have a large effect on bladder, bowel, sexual function, and support.
It's important to take proactive steps to maintain a healthy pelvic floor and address any issues that may arise. At the top of the list is seeing a pelvic floor therapist and we are well equipped to treat the male pelvic floor in our office. Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule your first consultation. We are ready to help you get your life back.
By: Dr. Nahir Feliciano-Mendez