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Causes and consequences of pelvic floor weakness

Sep 30, 2025

The female pelvic floor – causes and consequences of pelvic floor weakness

Like any muscle, the pelvic floor muscles lose strength and elasticity with age. Due to gravity and the constant pressure of the organs on the pelvic floor muscles, the tissue stretches over time, weakens, and loses strength and support. During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor is subjected to additional stress and strain due to tissue stretching and hormonal changes. During menopause, the tissue also loses elasticity due to changes in hormone production. Poor posture, excess weight, and excessive sitting can also weaken the pelvic floor muscles.

Causes of pelvic floor weakness

Hormonal changes

during pregnancy
during menopause

Burden

a pregnancy
a birth
Lifting and carrying the child
Lifting and carrying heavy objects

Personal influences

Overweight
little exercise
poor sitting behavior
poor posture

Other influences

Illness (e.g. weak connective tissue, chronic cough)
Taking medication
psychosocial causes

A weakened pelvic floor can lead to numerous problems. One possible consequence is stress incontinence. This means that whenever pressure in the abdominal cavity increases, for example, due to coughing, laughing, or heavy lifting, urine can no longer be retained. Less commonly, bowel movements are affected, or, conversely, constipation can occur. A weak pelvic floor can also be the cause of back pain and poor posture, or it can lead to misalignment of the abdominal organs or organ prolapse.

Consequences of pelvic floor weakness

Stress incontinence
Urge incontinence
Abdominal pain
constipation
back pain
Poor posture
Malposition of organs in the abdominal cavity
Uterine or vaginal prolapse
Bladder prolapse
Prolapse of the intestine
Fecal incontinence
Perceptual disturbance and disturbance of the sense of pleasure

Always seek medical advice

Important note: This article contains only general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor.

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