Male Pelvic Floor Therapy: Why It Matters More Than You Think

The pelvic floor is a very important group of muscles that is not often spoken about. As you go about fulfilling the different roles you play in life, you might have unknowingly developed habits that gradually reduce pelvic floor function causing a decline in pelvic health.

These habits include sitting for long hours, inconsistent exercise, inadequate water intake and poor sleep.

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What Is the Pelvic Floor and Why It’s Important for Men

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue forming a strong yet flexible “hammock” at the base of the pelvis. Think of it as the hidden foundation that supports your core and connects the lower and upper body.

In men, these muscles play a vital role in everyday function:

• Maintaining continence – for smooth release and good control of the bladder and bowel
• Enhancing sexual health and function – contributing to erectile function and performance .
• Stabilising the spine and pelvis – working with the diaphragm and deep abdominal muscles for pain free movement and balance
• Regulating pressure within the body – managing intra-abdominal pressure changes when lifting and coughing, adequate relaxation is required for healthy blood flow
• Supporting vital organs – providing structural support for the bladder, bowel, and sexual organs

Despite being so important, the pelvic floor is one of the least understood muscles in the body and is often mistakenly thought of as a “women’s health” issue. The truth is: men have pelvic floors too — and when it isn’t working well, problems such as slow urine flow, constipation, erectile dysfunction or pain in the testicular and anal region can arise.

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Lifestyle Factors That Disrupt Pelvic Floor Health

Modern routines often work against the body’s natural balance — and the pelvic floor muscles are no exception. You may not notice the impact right away, but the way you sit, move, drink, and manage stress will add up over time.

Common habits that strain the pelvic floor:

Lifestyle Habit	Impact on the Pelvic Floor
Prolonged sitting	Compresses the pelvic floor, reduces blood flow, and reduces muscle coordination
Poor hydration	Irritates the bladder, increases urinary urgency, and disrupts natural bladder function
Sleep deprivation	Impairs hormone regulation and prevents full muscle recovery, increasing tension in body
Lack of movement	Creates tight hips and stiff pelvic floor muscles, limiting flexibility and control
High stress levels	Encourages clenching, shallow breathing, and abdominal tension that overloads the pelvic floor

Individually, these factors might feel harmless. But when combined — as they often are in modern, fast-paced lifestyles — they create the perfect storm for pelvic floor dysfunction in men.

Understanding and removing these damaging habits is the first step toward breaking the cycle and supporting long-term pelvic health.

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Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Men: What You Should Know**

Pelvic floor dysfunction happens when the muscles of the pelvic floor are unable to perform their normal functions. Instead of working in balance — contracting, relaxing, and coordinating with the rest of the core — they may become too weak, too tight, or poorly controlled.

The most common types of pelvic floor dysfunction in men include:

• Overactive pelvic floor – when the muscles stay in a constant state of tension, leading to tightness, pelvic pain, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, or discomfort during intimacy.
• Underactive pelvic floor – when the muscles lack strength or control, resulting in urinary leakage, reduced anal control, or reduced sexual satisfaction.
• Poor coordination – when the pelvic floor muscles do not contract or relax at the right time, difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow, constipation and poor balance in general.

For many, symptoms start subtly and may disappear without treatment quite quickly. Over time, these symptoms can recur at shorter intervals and often increase in severity.

The good news? With targeted therapy and lifestyle changes, most will regain good pelvic floor muscle function, and are able to break out of their symptom cycle.

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Relaxing Pelvic Floor Muscles: Why Relaxation Matters

Contrary to popular belief, pelvic floor therapy isn’t just about strengthening. For many men, learning to relax pelvic floor muscles is the first step to better health.

Benefits of pelvic floor relaxation:

• Releases tension in the hips and lower abdomen
• Improves bladder and bowel control
• Enhances breathing and core coordination
• Reduces discomfort during exercise or daily life

Common relaxation techniques:

• Diaphragmatic breathing (deep belly breathing)
• Mindful body scanning to identify tension
• Gentle stretches such as child’s pose and deep squats
• Functional re-training with guided exercises

Relaxation builds flexibility and control, which can then be combined with strengthening for long-term balance.

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How We Support Men’s Pelvic Health at City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists provide a safe, respectful space for men to explore pelvic health without stigma. We focus on education, movement, and tailored strategies.

A pelvic floor session may include:

• Lifestyle and posture assessment
• Breathing and relaxation coaching
• Targeted coordination exercises for hips, glutes, and core
• Practical desk-friendly and home-based strategies
• Personalised guidance for building healthier long-term habits

We don’t just address symptoms — we help you understand your body and take proactive steps toward lasting pelvic health.

Take the Next Step Towards Better Pelvic Health

At City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy, we help men like you understand, protect, and optimise their pelvic floor through personalised therapy and guidance.

Start building awareness and strength today. Book a session with our team and take the first step towards a stronger, healthier foundation.

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FAQs on Men’s Pelvic Floor Therapy

1. Is pelvic floor therapy only about Kegels?

No. While Kegels exercise is often associated with pelvic floor training, they are only one part of the picture. In fact, doing too many Kegels without first addressing muscle tightness can sometimes make problems worse. Effective pelvic floor therapy for men involves a balance of strengthening, relaxation, coordination, and awareness — ensuring the muscles are both responsive and flexible.

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2. Can pelvic floor therapy help with back pain?

Yes. The pelvic floor is closely connected with the core, hips, and spine. When it functions well, it supports posture, reduces unnecessary tension, and distributes load more effectively. This can ease strain on the lower back and hips, often improving mobility and reducing discomfort during daily activities.

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3. What if I don’t have symptoms yet?

That’s actually the best time to start. Many men only notice the pelvic floor once issues arise, but prevention is more effective than treatment. Building awareness, improving flexibility, and keeping the pelvic floor strong and coordinated early can protect you against future problems such as leakage, pelvic pain, or reduced sexual function as you age.

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4. Can I work on both strengthening and relaxing?

Absolutely. Like any muscle group, the pelvic floor needs a balance of power and flexibility. Strength without relaxation can create tension, while relaxation without strength can lead to weakness. The most effective approach combines both, ensuring the pelvic floor responds appropriately to everyday demands such as lifting, sneezing, exercising, or intimacy.