Understanding Male Pelvic Health: What Every Man Should Know

When people hear “pelvic health,” they often think of women, especially around pregnancy or menopause. But the truth is, pelvic health is just as important for men. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis that support the bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

If these muscles don’t work properly, men may experience symptoms that are often misunderstood or left untreated. The good news? With awareness and physiotherapy, most of these issues can be managed or improved.

Education Pelvic Floor

Why Male Pelvic Health Matters

The pelvic floor muscles in men:

  • Support the bladder and bowel

  • Control continence (urine and stool)

  • Play a role in erections and ejaculation

  • Stabilise the pelvis and spine

👉 When these muscles are weak, overactive, or uncoordinated, symptoms appear.

Common Male Pelvic Health Issues

1. Urinary Problems

  • Leakage after urination (“post-micturition dribble”)

  • Urinary incontinence after prostate surgery

  • Urgency or frequency

2. Bowel Concerns

  • Difficulty controlling gas or stool

  • Constipation linked to poor coordination of pelvic floor muscles

3. Sexual Health

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Premature ejaculation

  • Pain with erections or ejaculation (often linked to pelvic floor overactivity)

4. Pelvic Pain

  • Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) or prostatitis-like symptoms

  • Pain in the perineum, lower abdomen, or testicles

Evidence-Based Physiotherapy for Men

A pelvic health physiotherapist can provide targeted, research-backed strategies such as:

  • Pelvic floor muscle training: recommended by international guidelines for post-prostatectomy incontinence.

  • Relaxation techniques: important for men with overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles.

  • Bladder and bowel retraining: improving habits and reducing strain.

  • Biofeedback or real-time ultrasound: to teach correct muscle activation and relaxation.

  • Pain management strategies: combining manual therapy, breathing, and education.

Lifestyle Factors That Help Pelvic Health

  • Maintain a healthy weight → reduces pelvic floor pressure.

  • Stay active with regular, moderate exercise.

  • Avoid excessive straining when lifting or on the toilet.

  • Limit bladder irritants (caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks).

  • Prioritise stress management: stress often worsens pelvic floor tension.

When Should Men See a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist?

  • Ongoing bladder or bowel leakage

  • Pain in the pelvis, groin, or lower back without clear cause

  • Post-prostatectomy recovery

  • Difficulty with erections or ejaculation

  • Chronic pelvic pain not improving with other treatments

Male pelvic health is often overlooked, but it’s a vital part of overall wellbeing. Problems with bladder, bowel, or sexual function are common but not normal, and they can be treated. With physiotherapy and evidence-based care, men can regain control, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.

Experiencing pelvic health issues? Book a consultation at Renard Clinic with our specialist physiotherapists for personalised, evidence-based care

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Why Pelvic Floor Physio Isn’t Just for Women

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