What Is the Pelvic Floor — And Why Should You Care?

by Olivia de Maigret, FOUR MAMAS co-founder and Women Health Osteopath.

Your pelvic floor might just be one of the most important muscle groups you've never thought about. Whether you're trying to conceive, currently pregnant, healing postpartum, or just trying to understand your body better—this post is for you.

We’ll break down what the pelvic floor actually is, why it matters, what Kegels can (and can’t) do for you, and how to truly care for this part of your body.

What Is the Pelvic Floor?

Think of your pelvic floor as a hammock of muscles that stretches from your pubic bone to your tailbone. It's not just hanging out in your body—it’s actively supporting key organs like your bladder, uterus, and rectum.

Everyone has one, but for women, this area becomes especially important during pregnancy, birth, and recovery.

It also plays a big role in:

• Bladder control

• Sexual function

• Core strength and posture

• Even your sense of stability and groundedness—some yogic traditions link it to the root chakra, which is all about security and physical/emotional grounding.

So… What Are Kegels?

Kegels are a simple type of pelvic floor exercise. Think of them as the "intro class" for pelvic floor training. You contract (squeeze) and release the muscles, ideally building strength over time.

But here’s the thing: most people aren’t doing them correctly. And even if they are, Kegels are only one piece of the puzzle.

Why Bother With Pelvic Floor Work?

Because these muscles:

• Help prevent issues like leakage, prolapse, and pain

• Support your organs as your body grows a baby

• Assist in smoother recovery after birth

• Enhance your intimacy and connection with your body

Your pelvic floor deserves love and attention—no matter where you are in your motherhood journey.

How to Do Kegels (The Right Way)

Here’s the simple version:

1. Imagine trying to stop yourself from peeing midstream. That lifting motion? That’s your pelvic floor.

2. Now, try to gently lift and hold for a few seconds.

3. Then fully release.

Don’t push down. Many women unknowingly bear down instead of lifting up, which can actually make things worse.

Even more important: learn to let go. We spend so much time sitting or clenching that our pelvic floors often become too tight, not just weak.

Are Kegels Enough?

Short answer? Nope.

Let’s use an analogy: Is running enough to get fit?

Not really. You need:

• A varied workout (strength training, stretching, rest)

• Good nutrition

• Sleep

• And support from professionals who know what they’re doing

Same goes for pelvic floor health. Kegels might be a helpful start, but you also need to:

• See an expert—don’t wait for symptoms

• Check your posture and breathing

• Support your body with good nutrition and hydration

• Understand how your abdominal and diaphragm muscles work with the pelvic floor

• Incorporate gentle techniques like the de Gasquet method (one we love in our clinic)

Your Next Step: Don’t Wait for a Problem

The biggest shift? Start caring for your pelvic floor before issues arise.

Whether you're trying to get pregnant, in the thick of your pregnancy, or months (or years!) postpartum—this part of your body deserves attention.

At FOUR MAMAS, we believe pelvic floor care is foundational. That’s why we’ve brought together expert practitioners to help guide you—wherever you are on your journey.

You're not alone. And it’s never too late (or too early) to start.

Book a session with a pelvic floor therapist. Talk to an osteopath if you’re dealing with back or hip pain.

Your pelvic health matters. A lot.