This post was written as a collaboration between Amber Riecken, PA-C and Kellie Simerly, PT, DPT.
At our clinic, we hear the same things every single day. Because pelvic health is often shrouded in silence and "hush-hush" conversations, misinformation travels fast. Many of our patients walk through our doors feeling frustrated or hopeless because they’ve been told things about their bodies that simply aren’t true.
It’s time to set the record straight. Here are three of the most common myths about pelvic health—debunked.
The Truth: While leaking is common, it is not normal.
There is a huge difference between common and normal. Just because a symptom is frequently experienced does not mean you have to accept it as your "new normal." Whether you are 25 or 85, your body is designed to have continence. If you are leaking when you sneeze, jump, or run, it is a clear sign that your pelvic floor is struggling to manage intra-abdominal pressure.
The Takeaway: You don’t have to "just live with it." Pelvic floor dysfunction is treatable at any age. If you’re leaking, you’re not "getting old"—you’re just dealing with a muscle coordination or strength issue that can be retrained.
The Truth: Doing more Kegels can actually make some people worse.
Think of your pelvic floor like any other muscle. If you have a tight, painful shoulder, would it help to do 500 bicep curls? Probably not. You might actually make the tension worse.
The pelvic floor is a complex muscle group that needs to be able to do three things: contract (tighten), relax (release), and lengthen. Many people suffering from pelvic pain or urgency actually have a hypertonic (too tight) pelvic floor. If your muscles are already in a state of chronic, locked-on tension, squeezing them even harder—aka doing more Kegels—will only increase your pain and dysfunction.
The Takeaway: Before you start a daily Kegel routine, you need a professional assessment to determine if your muscles are weak, tight, or uncoordinated. Don’t guess—get assessed!
The Truth: Pelvic floor therapy is for every body.
While it is true that pregnancy and childbirth have a significant impact on the pelvic floor, they are not the only reasons to seek care. We treat patients across the entire spectrum:
Athletes: Who experience leaking during heavy lifts or high-impact sports.
Men: Who deal with prostate issues, chronic pelvic pain, or post-surgical recovery.
Seniors: Who are navigating the effects of hormonal changes or chronic constipation.
People with chronic pain: Those dealing with hip, back, or tailbone issues that stem from pelvic instability.
The Takeaway: If you have a pelvis, you have a pelvic floor. And if you have a pelvic floor, you can benefit from professional guidance. It is not an "exclusive" club for new moms—it is a vital component of orthopedic health for everyone.
Believing these myths can keep you stuck in a cycle of discomfort for years. The truth is that your pelvic floor is a highly responsive, trainable, and resilient system.
If you’ve been told to "just deal with it," or if you’ve been doing Kegels with no results, it’s time for a different approach. Our team is here to help you get the clarity—and the relief—you deserve.
If you have more questions or would like to scheudle an appointment reach out to our team or our Pelvic Health Navigator today.
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