Risk factors for pelvic floor dysfunction

What can cause the pelvic floor muscles to become weak or to not function properly?

There are a number of factors that may cause weakening of the muscles. However, the pelvic floor muscles do not always become weak. They can also become tight or may not work in co-ordination with the diaphragm and the rest of the core system.

The following are risk factors that may cause pelvic floor dysfunction;

Pregnancy & childbirth

Constipation & straining

Ageing and menopause

Persistent cough

Being overweight

Heavy lifting

Not exercising the pelvic floor muscles

Just like any muscle group in the body they can become weak and long or short and tight if not exercised regularly.

Neurological conditions such as MS.

Previous surgery such as a hysterectomy