How is pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation treated?

Jan 11, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Ruizhi

Introduction

In general, pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation therapy involves Kegel exercises. Specifically, patients tighten the anal sphincter during inhalation and relax it during exhalation. This exercise should be performed 3–4 times daily, with approximately 30 repetitions per session. Alternatively, patients may seek rehabilitation treatment at a hospital’s physical medicine and rehabilitation department to undergo targeted pelvic floor muscle strength training.

After childbirth, the pelvic floor tissues undergo excessive stretching during delivery, leading to reduced elasticity and, in some cases, tearing of fibrous tissue. Therefore, postpartum pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation is essential. Women should engage in activities that promote recovery of the pelvic floor tissues to facilitate their restoration. Below, we address the question: “How is pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation performed?”

How Is Pelvic Floor Muscle Rehabilitation Performed?

Generally, pelvic floor rehabilitation involves Kegel exercises—specifically, contracting the anal sphincter while inhaling and relaxing it while exhaling. This exercise should be performed three to four times daily, with approximately 30 repetitions per session. Alternatively, women may seek professional rehabilitation at a hospital’s physical therapy or rehabilitation department, where targeted pelvic floor muscle strengthening programs are available.

Pelvic floor rehabilitation is suitable for women more than 42 days postpartum who have achieved satisfactory uterine involution and show no signs of infection. Such rehabilitation helps restore muscles and nerves injured during childbirth. It typically includes strength training and relaxation techniques for the pelvic floor muscles. During this period, adequate rest and a balanced diet are recommended. Prior to initiating pelvic floor rehabilitation, women should consult a healthcare provider to confirm complete uterine recovery.

Additional Information: Key Considerations for Pelvic Floor Muscle Rehabilitation

1. Mothers must learn to correctly contract the pelvic floor muscles;
2. Since collagen levels decline in women with pelvic floor dysfunction, increased dietary protein intake is advisable;
3. Avoid overexertion, heavy lifting, or mopping floors;
4. Maintain regular bowel movements; chronic constipation increases intra-abdominal pressure and may exacerbate pelvic floor dysfunction;
5. Patients should remain calm and actively cooperate with healthcare providers during pelvic floor muscle training;
6. Pelvic floor rehabilitation should progress gradually: during the first six weeks postpartum, only gentle exercises are recommended; most exercises may be safely resumed after six to eight weeks.

The above outlines how pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation is performed. We hope this information is helpful to you.

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Are vaginal dumbbells effective for pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation?

Whether vaginal dumbbells are effective for pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation depends on individual circumstances. They are usually effective for patients with good physical condition, but may not be effective for those with poor physical health. For patients in good physical condition, using vaginal dumbbells can be beneficial for pelvic floor muscle recovery, as these individuals generally have stronger self-healing abilities, and the use of vaginal dumbbells as an adjunct therapy can yield better therapeutic outcomes.