Pelvic floor health is an essential part of women’s overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked until problems arise. The pelvic floor plays a critical role in balance, continence, posture, and long-term mobility. In her presentation to Irma Jennings’ osteoporosis community group, Dr. Molly Weingart explained how pelvic floor health supports women through all life stages, especially during aging.

Fun, lively, and full of takeaways — Dr. Weingart’s engaging delivery makes this interview a delight for everyone.

Pelvic Floor Anatomy and Function

The pelvic floor is a complex system of muscles and tissues at the base of the pelvis that acts like a hammock supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Its importance goes far beyond continence, influencing balance, stability, and circulation.

Core functions include:

• Sphincteric: Controls bladder and bowel release.
• Stability: Works with abdominal and back muscles for posture.
• Support: Holds pelvic organs in place.
• Circulation & lymphatics: Supports blood and fluid flow.
• Sexual function: Supports comfort and responsiveness.

Key insight: The pelvic floor works as part of a system with the diaphragm, abdominal, and back muscles, making breathing and posture vital for healthy function.

Recognizing Signs of Pelvic Floor Health Issues

Pelvic floor dysfunction is more common than many realize and can significantly impact daily life. Dr. Weingart noted that pelvic organ prolapse affects 85–90% of her patients in some form.

Potential causes:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Menopause and hormonal changes
• Surgery or trauma
• Chronic conditions or posture issues

Common symptoms include:

• Urinary or fecal incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse (heaviness or pressure)
• Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region
• Difficulty with elimination

Bulletproof reminder: Dysfunction is not a normal part of aging that must be tolerated — it can be managed and often reversed with the right care.

How Therapy Supports Pelvic Floor Health

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a holistic approach that looks at posture, breathing, and muscle coordination alongside targeted exercises. It is more than Kegels, which are not suitable for everyone.

Therapy may include:

• Internal and external assessments of muscle tone and function
• Manual therapy to release tension or scar tissue
• Exercises tailored to weakness or overactivity
• Breathing techniques for better diaphragm–pelvic coordination
• Lifestyle adjustments for posture and daily movement

Important takeaway: Therapy is individualized. What works for one woman may not be right for another, which is why professional evaluation matters.

Hormonal Changes and Menopause

Menopause has a direct effect on pelvic floor health due to the natural decline in estrogen. Tissue changes can lead to discomfort, incontinence, and prolapse if not addressed.

Changes during menopause:

• Thinning and drying of vaginal and pelvic tissues
• Higher risk of incontinence or prolapse
• Pain or discomfort during intimacy

Supportive options:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or topical estrogen
• Moisturizers and lubricants for daily comfort
• Consistent pelvic floor exercises to maintain tone
• Physical therapy to address specific concerns

Practical focus: Early management during menopause reduces complications later in life and helps preserve independence.

The Connection Between Breathing and Core Stability

The pelvic floor is closely tied to the diaphragm, making breathing one of the simplest ways to improve pelvic health. Proper breathing supports coordination, relaxation, and balance.

Breath work benefits:

• Improves pelvic floor relaxation and tension control
• Supports balance by stabilizing the core system
• Reduces pain and strain during movement
• Enhances circulation for tissue health

Bulletproof tip: Combine breath-focused exercises with gentle core activation for maximum pelvic support.

A Holistic Approach to Balance and Core Wellness

Pelvic floor care extends beyond therapy into everyday lifestyle choices. Dr. Weingart emphasized that self-care, awareness, and activity are crucial for long-term function.

Practical self-care tools:

• Use body-safe moisturizers, lubricants, or even pelvic devices for tissue health
• Consider CBD products for circulation and pain relief if appropriate
• Stay physically active to maintain circulation and mobility
• Practice self-exploration to better understand changes in your body

Key Takeaways for Lifelong Health

Focusing on pelvic floor health is an investment in balance, strength, and aging well. Women who pay attention to these muscles enjoy greater independence, less discomfort, and improved confidence.

Final reminders:

• Don’t wait for severe symptoms — early awareness makes a difference.
• Pelvic floor physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment at any age.
• Breathing, posture, and lifestyle habits are just as important as exercise.
• Support during menopause helps preserve function and comfort.

Pelvic floor health is not just about continence — it is about living fully, aging gracefully, and maintaining confidence at every stage of life.