“Under pressure” from our pelvic floor

Have you been told you should avoid lifting heavy things because it can increase pressure on your pelvic floor? Have you been told you should avoid lifting heavy things because you’re pregnant? Have you been told you should avoid lifting heavy things because it can increase your prolapse symptoms?

Let’s dive into why these statements are incorrect -

Every activity we do in life is going to increase pressure in our pelvic floor, check out these numbers based on a recent research paper:

The amount of pressure on our pelvic floor getting out of a chair was equivalent to:

• lifting 20lbs from a counter

• lifting 13lbs from the floor

• climbing stairs

• walking briskly

The amount of pressure on our pelvic floor while coughing was equivalent to:

• lifting 35lbs from the floor (that’s a barbell!)

There is no way to avoid increasing pressure on our pelvic floor. The things that we can control are gradually exposing our body to load, making sure daily activities are not the hardest thing we do in a day, and learning proper pressure management strategies.

At Loon State Physical Therapy, we are getting rid of blanket statements and meeting you where you’re at. If you or someone you know have heard this advice, reach out so we can help debunk these myths.

Ready to start your exercise journey? Want to stop peeing your pants with sneezing or coughing? Want to stop having painful intercourse? Ready to stay active during pregnancy? We’re ready to help!

Loon State Physical Therapy is located in Lake Elmo, Linden Hills, and Minnetonka. Book your free discovery call or your first appointment here.

- Lexi Noel PT, DPT