Perineal and pelvic rehabilitation

The pelvic floor is a muscle group that is often neglected, yet it is essential for both women and men. It supports bladder and bowel control, stabilises the internal organs and influences intimate well-being. However, its importance is often only recognised when problems arise.

Function and importance of the pelvic floor

The pelvic floor is made up of a complex structure of muscles and connective tissue that closes off the pelvis from the bottom. It supports the internal organs, ensures continence and stabilises the lumbar spine. In women, hormonal changes, pregnancy or childbirth significantly affect the function of the pelvic floor. In men, the function of the prostate can influence the pelvic floor, especially after urological surgery.

Risks and consequences of a weak pelvic floor

Insufficient pelvic floor muscle tone can lead to various clinical symptoms:

Urinary and faecal incontinence

Involuntary loss of urine or faeces, often during physical exertion such as coughing or sneezing.

Genital prolapse

Descent of the bladder, uterus or rectum, which may cause a feeling of pressure or pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia).

Lower back pain

Weak pelvic floor muscles can affect lumbar stability and lead to back pain.

Pelvic floor training and postpartum recommendations

Pelvic floor training: physical and psychological relevance

 

Evidence-based studies show that regular pelvic floor training is effective in both prevention and therapy. It strengthens the muscles, improves blood circulation and increases proprioceptive perception. For women, a strengthened pelvic floor can facilitate postpartum recovery and reduce the risk of incontinence. In addition, better body awareness can boost self-confidence and alleviate psychological burdens, such as postpartum depression.

Recommendations for starting postpartum training

 

The optimal time to start pelvic floor training after childbirth varies from person to person. It is generally recommended to start with light exercises a few days after a vaginal delivery without complications, while waiting about six weeks is advised after a caesarean section. Close consultation with the gynaecologist is essential in this context.

Protecting your pelvic floor in everyday life

In addition to structured exercise programmes, it is possible to adopt certain daily behaviours that help to preserve the pelvic floor. The combination of targeted training and integrated daily measures can sustainably support the functionality of the pelvic floor.

Ergonomic lifting

Avoid lifting heavy loads; if unavoidable, do so with your back straight and your knees bent.

Maintaining a healthy body weight

To reduce intra-abdominal pressure.

Postural training

Favour an upright posture to relieve the pelvic floor.

Course of physiotherapy treatment for the pelvic floor

Pelvic floor physiotherapy begins with a detailed case history, in which the patient's specific complaints are recorded. This is followed by a physical examination, which may include, depending on the indication, vaginal or anal palpation to assess the pelvic floor muscles. With the patient's consent, this examination is carried out to assess muscle tone, strength and control. Based on these results, an individualised therapy plan is developed, then evaluated and adjusted to achieve optimal results.

Perception education

Develop awareness of the pelvic floor muscles.

Strengthening exercises

Targeted training to strengthen the muscles.

Relaxation techniques

Learning methods to reduce muscle tension.

Biofeedback

Use of devices providing visual or auditory feedback on muscle activity.

Electrostimulation

Application of electrical impulses to support muscle contraction.

Treatment

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is carried out by specially trained physiotherapists with in-depth knowledge of pelvic rehabilitation. The therapy takes place in an environment of trust and discretion, always taking into account the patient's individual needs and limitations.

A healthy pelvic floor contributes significantly to quality of life. Thanks to targeted physiotherapy, disorders can be treated effectively and anticipated.

Find out more about our specialities

Treatment of urogynaecological diseases and incontinence

Urogynaecology

Urology

Treatment of gynaecological diseases and tumours at Swiss Medical Network

Gynaecology

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