Constipation

Constipation means bowel movements become less frequent or more difficult. It usually shows up as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, straining during bowel movements or feeling that you haven't emptied completely. Even if you have a bowel movement every day, straining and hard stools also count as constipation.

When the pelvic floor muscles are too tense or too weak, the bowels may not empty completely. Pain and straining during bowel movements are often caused by pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.

Physiotherapy aims to get the pelvic floor muscles working correctly. Pelvic floor muscles that work correctly allow for adequate emptying. Methods such as pelvic muscle relaxation exercises, biofeedback, abdominal massage and breathing techniques in particular help relax the bowel movements and the pelvic floor muscles.

Occasional constipation can be temporary. However, once constipation has become chronic, your pelvic floor function and lifestyle need to be assessed and treated with professional support.

Continuous use of medication can make your bowels sluggish and, in the long run, make the problem worse instead of solving it. It is healthier to correct your bowel habits with natural methods and find lasting solutions such as physiotherapy.

Yes, constipation is very common during pregnancy because of hormonal changes, pressure from the growing uterus on the bowels and iron supplements. It can be brought under control with nutrition and pelvic floor exercises.

Constant straining because of constipation increases the pressure on the pelvic floor over time and can lead to prolapse of the pelvic organs (bowel, bladder and uterus). That is why it is important to manage constipation early.

Yes, constipation can put pressure on the pelvic floor and affect the bladder. It can trigger bladder problems such as urinary incontinence and frequent urination.