Pelvic health is one of those aspects of female wellbeing that rarely enters the conversation until something feels off. Bladder leakage when you sneeze, discomfort during exercise, persistent pelvic pain or a feeling of heaviness are often brushed aside. Yet the pelvic floor, a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs, plays a crucial role in everything from stability and posture to everyday comfort. “Many women only start paying attention to their pelvic floor after pregnancy or when symptoms begin affecting their quality of life,” says Tanya Brijwasi, a pelvic floor physiotherapist. According to her, pelvic health deserves attention throughout a woman’s life.
Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction
Dr Snehal Kohale, gynaecologist, notes that symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction can include urinary incontinence, pelvic pain or discomfort, sexual dysfunction and a feeling of weakness in the pelvic region. Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life can also influence pelvic floor strength and function, making pelvic care an ongoing consideration rather than a one-time fix. Left unaddressed, these concerns can affect everything from confidence and daily movement to overall quality of life.
The good news? “Pilates is one of the strongest pillars of pelvic health because it combines breathing, alignment and deep core activation in a way that supports pelvic floor function,” says Dr Kohale. Beyond strengthening muscles, the practice encourages a deeper awareness of the body. “The breathing techniques and mindful movement patterns used in Pilates help create a stronger mind-body connection while engaging the muscles that support the pelvis,” she adds.
If you’re looking to support pelvic health through movement, consider starting with these Pilates exercises for pelvic floor strengthening:
