PELVIC FLOOR & COMFORT
How strength, tension, and relaxation affect intimacy
The Pelvic Floor: An Overlooked Part of Intimate Health
The pelvic floor plays a crucial role in comfort, arousal, and intimacy — yet many women don’t learn about it until something feels wrong.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. These muscles also influence sensation, blood flow, and comfort during intimacy.
When the pelvic floor is out of balance — either too tight or too weak — discomfort, pain, or changes in sensation can occur.
Pelvic Floor: Tight vs. Weak (It’s Not One or the Other)
One of the most common misconceptions is that pelvic floor issues are only about weakness.
In reality, tension is just as common — especially in midlife.
A Tight Pelvic Floor May Cause:
- Pain with penetration
- Burning or sharp sensations
- Difficulty relaxing during intimacy
- Feeling “clenched” or guarded
A Weak Pelvic Floor May Cause:
- Reduced sensation
- Leaking urine
- Pelvic heaviness
- Difficulty reaching orgasm
Many women experience both tension and weakness at different times.
Why Pelvic Floor Changes in Midlife
Several factors can affect pelvic floor function:
- Hormonal changes affecting tissue elasticity
- Chronic stress and unconscious muscle clenching
- Pregnancy and childbirth history
- Painful sex leading to protective tightening
- Reduced blood flow and tissue hydration
- Aging and posture changes
These shifts are common — and treatable.
How the Pelvic Floor Affects Intimacy
A balanced pelvic floor supports:
- Comfort during penetration
- Healthy blood flow and arousal
- Stronger sensation
- Easier relaxation and responsiveness
When muscles are tight or fatigued, the body may associate intimacy with discomfort — causing protective responses that reduce desire and pleasure.
What Supports Pelvic Floor Health
Many women find relief and improvement through:
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
A pelvic floor physio can assess muscle tone, tension, and coordination — and guide personalized exercises and relaxation techniques.
Hydration & Tissue Support
Healthy tissue is more resilient and comfortable.
Gentle Stimulation & Blood Flow
External or internal vibration can increase circulation and help muscles respond more naturally.
Breath & Relaxation
Learning to release tension can be just as important as strengthening.
Education
Understanding what’s happening reduces fear and helps the body feel safer.
Watch our seminar Sexual Wellness and Your Pelvic Floor with Nasim Delfaninejad, Registered Physiotherapist.
When to Seek Support
If you’re experiencing: pain with sex, persistent discomfort, bladder changes, pelvic heaviness, or difficulty relaxing.
A pelvic floor physiotherapist or healthcare provider can offer guidance and reassurance.
Our trifecta for midlife comfort
Moisturize for Daily Comfort
Just like facial moisturizer supports your skin, vaginal moisturizers are designed to hydrate delicate tissues inside and out. They provide longer-lasting relief and are ideal for ongoing support, not just in the moment.
Use Lubricant for Intimacy
When intimacy becomes uncomfortable, adding a lubricant can make all the difference. Water-based lubricants are a great option—they’re safe with toys and condoms, and they mimic your body’s natural moisture.
Add Gentle Vibration for Better Circulation
You may not realize that vibrators can do more than enhance intimacy—they can actually help improve moisture levels over time. Regular use of gentle, external or internal vibration increases blood flow to the pelvic area, which in turn supports tissue health, elasticity, and natural lubrication.
Everything you need to know about hormones.
Dr. Melanie Altas brings a wealth of knowledge to illuminate the path ahead with Menopause Hormone Therapy. As your body adjusts to the ebb and flow of hormones, this therapeutic approach steps in to reintroduce essential female hormones, providing a respite from the rollercoaster of symptoms, such as those relentless hot flashes and vexing vaginal discomfort.