When we talk about the pelvic floor, people often – mistakenly – think it’s only a women’s issue, especially after childbirth. However, men also have a pelvic floor, and it plays a crucial role in their health and well-being. The good news? Just like in women, the male pelvic floor can be re-educated. In fact, sometimes it’s absolutely essential.
🧠 What Exactly Is the Male Pelvic Floor?
The Pelvic Floor in Men: What Is It Exactly?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located between the pubic bone and the coccyx that supports the pelvic organs (bladder, rectum, and prostate). In men, it plays a key role in:
Urinary and anal continence
Erectile function
Pelvic stability
Managing abdominal pressure (such as during coughing or lifting)
A pelvic floor that is too weak or poorly coordinated can therefore have a real impact on quality of life.
When Is Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Recommended for Men?
Male pelvic floor rehabilitation is recommended in several situations :
After prostate surgery
This is the most common reason for pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Partial or total removal of the prostate (prostatectomy) can lead to:
Urinary leakage, either during physical effort or even at rest
A decrease in pelvic floor muscle tone
In cases of urinary or fecal incontinence
Urinary leakage related to age or physical effort
Urgency and frequency of urination
Bladder dysfunctions (e.g., incomplete emptying)
When experiencing erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction (the pelvic floor plays a key role in achieving and maintaining an erection)
- Premature or absent ejaculation
- Perineal or post-ejaculatory pain
After a trauma or in case of a chronic condition
- Sports injuries, falls, accidents.
- Chronic digestive disorders, repeated straining efforts
🧰 What does male pelvic floor rehabilitation involve?
Rehabilitation is generally carried out by a trained physiotherapist or a midwife authorized to manage male patients.
It may include:
🔹Awareness training
Many men do not know where their pelvic floor is or how to contract it properly. We often start with exercises to locate and feel the muscles.
🔹 Strengthening exercises
On the same principle as other muscles in the body, the pelvic floor can be toned through:
voluntary contractions (such as Kegel exercises),
coordination work with breathing,
abdominal core strengthening.
🔹 Specific techniques
Biofeedback (sensors to visualize muscle activity).
Electrical stimulation in cases of significant weakness.
Postural work, abdominal maneuvers, etc.
🔹 Hygiene and dietary advice
The therapist also supports lifestyle habits such as:
posture on the toilet,
management of constipation,
exercise, nutrition, etc.
⏳ How long does the rehabilitation last?
It depends on the type of issues, their cause, and the patient’s consistency. On average, it takes between 5 and 20 sessions, sometimes more after surgery. Personal exercises at home are essential for progress.
💬 But… why is it never talked about?
Good question! Several reasons explain the taboo around the male pelvic floor:
a lack of information among the general public (and sometimes healthcare professionals),
cultural or macho barriers (“it’s not a manly thing”),
the difficulty of discussing intimate topics like incontinence or sexual disorders.
And yet… rehabilitation works, and it can transform the lives of affected men.
Male pelvic floor rehabilitation is neither shameful nor marginal. It is a valuable, effective, and respectful approach that deserves to be better known and recognized. If you (or someone you know) are affected, please don’t hesitate to contact us to make an appointment.
Prendre soin de son périnée, c’est prendre soin de sa santé globale.
If you think you are experiencing pelvic floor problems, don’t hesitate to consult a specialized physiotherapist. Our team is specialized in both female AND male pelvic floor therapy!
