17/02/2026
As we saw from our poll yesterday, there can be many factors that cause pelvic health issues. However most womens’ pelvic health issues fall into one of three main groups.
1. The Legacy of Pregnancy and Childbirth
It’s not just the birth itself; the nine months of carrying increased weight puts significant, constant strain on your pelvic floor muscles.
• The “Stretch” Factor: During a vaginal delivery, these muscles can stretch over three times their normal length.
• The Postnatal Gap: Often, we return to high-impact exercise or heavy lifting too quickly after birth, further straining tissues that haven’t fully healed or regained their coordination.
2. The Hormonal “Elasticity” Shift.
For those of us in our late 30s and 40s, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and eventually decline.
• Loss of Support: Estrogen is vital for maintaining the thickness, elasticity, and blood flow of your pelvic tissues.
• The Menopause Connection: As estrogen drops during the transition to menopause, these muscles can naturally become thinner and less resilient, which can lead to new symptoms like urgency or a “dragging” sensation (prolapse).
3. Everyday Lifestyle strain
Sometimes, it’s the small, repetitive habits that do the most damage.
• Chronic Pressure: Constant “downward” pressure from chronic constipation, a persistent “smoker’s cough,” or even long periods of sitting with poor posture can weaken the pelvic “hammock” over time.
• The “Core” Connection: If your deep core and breath aren’t working together, your pelvic floor often ends up taking the brunt of the pressure every time you lift a grocery bag or a child.
The Good News? It’s Never Too Late.
Whether you are 6 weeks or 60 years postpartum, your pelvic floor is a muscle group that can be retrained. Targeted exercises, professional guidance from a therapist and simple lifestyle shifts can make a world of difference.
I’d love to hear from you—which of these factors resonates most with where you are in your journey right now?
