Pelvic floor physical therapy: benefits for men

Pelvic floor physical therapy has been gaining popularity as awareness of the importance of pelvic health has spread. While traditionally associated with women's health (think pregnancy!), pelvic floor therapy can also be beneficial for men, especially gay men.

What is pelvic floor physical therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialization within physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic region. The pelvic floor muscles are necessary for supporting the organs in the pelvic area, controlling bladder and bowel function, and supporting sexual function. Pelvic floor physical therapists work with patients to evaluate and treat pelvic floor dysfunctions, including urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.

Why is pelvic floor physical therapy important for gay men?

While all men can benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy, it is essential for gay men. Studies have shown that gay and bisexual men are at higher risk for pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction. These communities face higher rates of discrimination and lack of access to proper gay-friendly health care. Also, practices such as anal sex place stress on the pelvic floor muscles, possibly leading to muscle weakness, pain, stiffness, and other issues.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help gay men address these issues and improve their pelvic and sexual health. Here are some of how pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial for gay men:

•     Improving pelvic floor muscle strength and tone

  • Pelvic floor physical therapy can help gay men improve the strength and tone of their pelvic floor muscles. This can lead to better bladder and bowel control and improved sexual function. With stronger pelvic floor muscles, gay men may experience more intense and longer-lasting orgasms and improved erectile function.

•     Reducing pain during anal intercourse

  • For many gay men, anal sex can be uncomfortable or even painful. This may be due to pelvic floor muscle tension, overactivity, or other issues. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help gay men address these issues and reduce pain during anal intercourse. Through a combination of exercises, education, manual therapy, and other techniques, pelvic floor physical therapists can help gay men improve their pelvic floor muscle function and reduce pain during sex.

•     Treating urinary incontinence

  • Urinary incontinence is a common issue among men who have undergone prostate surgery. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help address this issue by improving pelvic floor muscle strength and control. Men may experience improved bladder control and decreased urinary incontinence with stronger pelvic floor muscles.

•     Improving overall sexual function and pleasure

  • Pelvic floor physical therapy can improve overall sexual function and pleasure for men. By addressing pelvic floor muscle weakness, tension, and pain, gay men may experience more intense and satisfying orgasms without fearing pain or discomfort. Additionally, pelvic floor physical therapy can improve erectile function and help gay men maintain stronger erections for longer periods of time.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can be an essential tool for gay men who want to improve their pelvic health and overall sexual function. By working with a pelvic floor physical therapist, gay men can address issues such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction and improve their overall quality of life. If you are a man experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, please reach out to a pelvic floor physical therapist today to learn more about how pelvic floor therapy can help you.