Am I Going to Have to Exercise My Pelvic Floor Muscles Forever?

If you're like many of our patients at Bonneville Pelvic Health, you've probably asked yourself: "Am I really going to have to exercise my pelvic floor muscles forever?" This idea might sound daunting at first—understandably so. But here's a better way to think about it: would you ever stop working your legs? Your core? Your arms? Probably not! Like any muscle group, the pelvic floor muscles require ongoing attention to remain strong, functional, and healthy.

Understanding the Pelvic Floor Muscles

Your pelvic floor muscles form a hammock-like structure that supports your pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles play a crucial role in daily functions such as controlling urination, bowel movements, sexual function, and even supporting your spine and core stability.

Unfortunately, pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is extremely common and can lead to symptoms like urinary leakage, pelvic pain, constipation, sexual discomfort, and other issues. That's where specialized pelvic floor physical therapy comes in, and why exercises that include both contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles are often recommended as part of your treatment plan.

Beyond Contractions: Comprehensive Pelvic Floor Exercise

When people think of pelvic floor exercises, they often only consider contractions (commonly called "Kegels"). However, effective pelvic floor training includes both contracting and fully relaxing these muscles. The goal is to achieve balance, strength, endurance, and coordination, tailored specifically to your individual needs.

Initially, many patients practice pelvic floor exercises diligently to manage symptoms of dysfunction. However, once symptoms improve, patients often wonder if they can or should stop these exercises entirely.

At Bonneville Pelvic Health, we encourage our patients to consider pelvic floor exercises as part of ongoing physical wellness. Just as maintaining leg strength through squats, lunges, or walking is beneficial, continuing to engage your pelvic floor muscles through a balanced routine supports long-term pelvic health.

The Importance of Consistency and Routine

Muscle groups respond positively to consistent, targeted exercise—and your pelvic floor is no exception. Regularly practicing pelvic floor exercises, even just a few minutes each day, can significantly reduce your risk of recurring symptoms. Consistency helps maintain the improvements achieved during your initial therapy, allowing you to stay symptom-free and maintain a high quality of life.

However, consistency doesn't mean intensity forever. Many people start with a more structured routine during treatment and gradually transition into a maintenance schedule that fits their lifestyle and keeps their pelvic floor in optimal condition.

Tailoring Your Pelvic Floor Routine

At Bonneville Pelvic Health, we understand that no two patients are exactly alike. Your pelvic floor health program should reflect your individual needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Our goal is not to overwhelm you with lifelong intensive routines but to empower you with simple, manageable strategies that seamlessly fit into your life.

Dr. Bailee, a board-certified specialist in pelvic floor physical therapy, is exceptionally qualified to help you create an individualized pelvic floor wellness plan. Her extensive training and expertise allow her to treat a comprehensive range of pelvic floor dysfunctions, from mild to complex cases. Under her guidance, you'll receive a customized program that helps you transition smoothly from intensive treatment to sustainable, enjoyable maintenance.

Pelvic Floor Exercises and Beyond: An Integrated Approach

While pelvic floor muscle exercises are incredibly beneficial, comprehensive pelvic health often involves more than these exercises alone. Additional strategies such as core strengthening, yoga, Pilates, breathwork, or relaxation techniques may also be incorporated to promote overall pelvic wellness. Dr. Bailee at Bonneville Pelvic Health offers a holistic approach, ensuring that your pelvic floor program supports your overall health, comfort, and wellness.

The Lifelong Benefit: Pelvic Health as a Lifestyle

Think of your pelvic floor health as a vital component of your overall fitness routine. Just as you wouldn’t permanently eliminate leg or core exercises after achieving your initial fitness goals, maintaining pelvic floor strength through regular, manageable activities keeps you healthy and symptom-free in the long run.

Integrating pelvic floor exercises into your daily life is an investment in your ongoing health, comfort, and overall well-being. Rather than viewing these exercises as a tedious obligation, reframe them as a meaningful part of your self-care and wellness journey.

Start Your Personalized Pelvic Health Journey Today

If you’re ready to explore effective, individualized pelvic floor treatments tailored to your lifestyle and needs, contact Bonneville Pelvic Health. Dr. Bailee is here to provide compassionate, specialized care to help you achieve lasting pelvic floor wellness. You deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and empowered in your body every single day. Let’s start your pelvic health journey together!

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Written By:

Dr. Bailee Burningham, DPT, WCS, PRPC

Board-Certified Specialist in Women's Health Physical Therapy

Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner

Owner of Bonneville Pelvic Health

As an expert in pelvic floor rehabilitation, Dr. Bailee Burningham brings extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor disorders. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.