Physical Exercise and Pelvic Floor Muscle Training

Abstract

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) significantly impacts women's quality of life (QoL), affecting social, professional, and mental well-being. Pregnancy and childbirth, particularly vaginal delivery, are major risk factors for PFD. This chapter reviews pelvic floor anatomy, function and changes during pregnancy and childbirth. It explores the prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of PFD, emphasizing conservative treatments like physical exercise and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). PFMT strengthens pelvic floor muscles, improves muscle tone, and enhances neuromuscular control, effectively preventing and treating PFD. Regular physical exercise during pregnancy without complications maintains physical and cardiorespiratory functions and reduces sedentary lifestyle-related risks. Therefore, PFMT and regular physical exercise are essential for preventing and managing PFD during pregnancy and postpartum. Moreover, education on pelvic floor health for healthcare providers and women is essential to promote lifelong adherence to physical exercise and improve women's QoL.