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There is a group of muscles in a hammock-like sheet suspended within the pelvis that supports our internal organs. These are called the Pelvic Floor Muscles and they play an important role in the correct functioning of the urethra (the outlet tube of the bladder) and the rectum. A woman's vagina crosses her pelvic floor muscle sheet also. Please refer to PFX2.
Most people are unaware of their Pelvic Floor Muscles.
It is only when bladder or bowel control becomes a problem, (for example, accidental leaks during laughing, coughing or exertion or after surgery) do they come into focus. Doctors call this 'faecal incontinence'.
These leaks are probably telling you that your Pelvic Floor muscles are unfit or have become damaged or stretched.
For example:
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Any surgery involving the anal canal can lead to bowel control problems.
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Men often have trouble with bladder control after prostate surgery.
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Damage to the anal canal during childbirth involving tearing of the perineum and injury to anal sphincters can lead to bowel control difficulties.
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Pudendal nerve damage during prolonged labour and childbirth.
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Homosexual men sometimes suffer from faecal incontinence.
Pelvic floor exercises can revitalise your Pelvic Floor and bring things back to normal - or better!
Before starting a program of pelvic floor exercises to improve bladder or bowel control it is a good idea to talk to a doctor in case there are other factors affecting your condition.
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