Stress urinary incontinence – when urine leaks occur involuntarily during activities that increase pressure in the abdomen – is among the most common issues troubling women in Singapore, he told CNA Women.
Dr Eliane Hong, associate consultant with the division of urogynaecology and pelvic reconstructive surgery at National University Hospital’s (NUH) Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, added that a weak pelvic floor is also associated with pelvic organ prolapse.
This occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, rectum, vagina, descend into a lower position in the vagina, causing a bulge that may even protrude out of the body.
These conditions don’t just have physical repercussions. “Women with either of these conditions may be more self-conscious of their body and this can negatively affect sexual function. They may also leak urine during sexual intercourse, putting them off sexual activities,” Dr Hong said.
Dr Lim said that some patients stop venturing out of their comfort zones or homes, worried about wetting or soiling themselves in public.
WHAT WEAKENS THE PELVIC FLOOR?
While pelvic floor muscles weaken naturally with age, certain factors can speed up this process. Pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, having a chronic cough or straining due to constipation, standing for prolonged periods or a job that involves heavy lifting may also strain these muscles.
“As with any other muscle in the body, if you don’t use it, you will lose it,” warned Dr Lim. “The pelvic floor is a commonly missed and hard-to-train muscle. Unless you try to tone it, it can weaken over the years.”
Pregnancy and childbirth play a significant role in pelvic floor health.
Dr Lee Wai Yen, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and urogynaecologist at Foundation Women’s Centre, explained: “As the baby grows, the increasing weight places pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. During pregnancy, the relaxin hormone is released to soften ligaments in preparation for childbirth, which may also weaken the pelvic floor muscles.”
