Men Have a Pelvic Floor Too—And It Might Be Causing Your Symptoms
Did you know... men have a pelvic floor too?
Unfortunately, the common misconception is that only women have pelvic floor muscles. But in reality, men, women, and children all have pelvic floors! This outdated narrative—that pelvic floor dysfunction is a “women’s issue”—can leave others feeling isolated or overlooked when experiencing similar symptoms. Men in particular are often unaware that their symptoms could be tied to the pelvic floor. As a result, many pelvic floor issues in men are misdiagnosed or brushed off, leading to delayed treatment and prolonged discomfort.
We’re here to change that.
Many men experience pelvic floor dysfunction at some point in their lives, and it can show up in a variety of ways. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Pelvic Pain: This can occur in the groin, testicles, penis, rectum, lower abdomen, or hips—sometimes as a dull ache, tightness, or even sharp, shooting discomfort.
Urinary Dysfunction: This may look like urinary incontinence (leaking urine), urinary urgency, frequency, hesitation to initiate the stream, or the sensation of incomplete emptying.
Bowel Dysfunction: This includes constipation, straining, feelings of incomplete emptying, and involuntary passage of stool or gas.
Sexual Dysfunction: Pelvic floor dysfunction can impact intimacy, too. Some men may experience erectile dysfunction, weaker erections, fewer erections, and poor control over or weak orgasms.
Abacterial Prostatitis: Also known as Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome, and can lead to all of the above symptoms. When prostatitis, an inflamed prostate, and the associated symptoms are not relieved with antibiotics, then it may be related to pelvic floor dysfunction instead of a persistent infection. Want to understand more about what the prostate is and how it relates to pelvic floor health? Check out our full blog on the prostate.
Because the pelvic floor is deeply connected to other nearby muscles and structures, men may also experience related symptoms in the lower back, hips, or abdomen. Common complaints include low back pain, chronic hip tightness, and stiffness in the pelvis.
So... what does pelvic floor therapy look like for men?
Your first visit will begin with a detailed history of your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals for pelvic floor physical therapy. We’ll then assess the mobility and strength of your lumbar spine and hips, looking for any movement patterns or positions that reproduce symptoms or reveal weakness. If appropriate and with your full informed consent, we may also perform an internal rectal exam to better understand how your pelvic floor muscles are functioning. This is never required and always your choice.
With these objective findings in mind, we will create a detailed plan of care tailored to your specific symptoms, presentation, and goals. Your pelvic floor PT care may include:
Targeted exercises and stretching
Breathwork and relaxation techniques
Soft tissue release and trigger point work
Visceral mobilization (gentle work on internal organs)
Strengthening and coordination drills
Biofeedback and education
We understand that seeking help for these symptoms might feel intimidating or vulnerable. Our approach is always respectful, professional, and centered around your comfort and goals.
Recovering after Prostatectomy? Pelvic floor therapy can help!
If you’ve had a prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate), pelvic floor therapy can play a crucial role in your recovery. It’s common to experience urinary leakage, changes in sexual function, and pelvic pain or discomfort after this procedure, often due to the impact on the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding nerves.
Here’s how pelvic floor therapy can support your recovery:
Urinary Incontinence Support: Leaking urine after prostate surgery is incredibly common, especially during activities like coughing, sneezing, or standing up. We work with you to retrain and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder control and reduce leakage.
Sexual Function Rehab: Changes in erectile function and orgasm are also common post-surgery. Pelvic floor therapy can improve blood flow, muscle coordination, and awareness in the pelvic region, which may help enhance sexual health and confidence.
Core and Pelvic Stability: Surgery can lead to muscle compensation, weakness, or poor movement patterns. We’ll help rebuild strength and mobility in the hips, core, and lower back, improving your overall function and reducing pain.
Personalized Guidance and Support: Every recovery journey is different. We’ll meet you where you’re at—physically and emotionally—and build a plan that supports your healing and long-term goals.
Putting it all together
Our goals are your goals! At Pelvic Health and Wellness, our goal is to empower you to understand your body, make progress you can feel, and get back to living your life with confidence. Our pelvic floor physical therapists are highly trained in treating men’s pelvic floor conditions. You deserve care that acknowledges your full experience and helps you get to the root of the issue.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this blog—leaking, pain, constipation, or changes in sexual function—know that you’re not alone, and there’s help available. Seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist is a powerful first step. We’re here to listen, to support, and to guide you toward lasting relief.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward feeling better in your body.
About Pelvic Health & Wellness
Pelvic Health & Wellness was built with you in mind. We practice whole-person, individualized pelvic floor physical therapy in a caring and safe environment. Our physical therapists specialize in treating pelvic health concerns such as pelvic floor dysfunction, men’s health, bowel and gut health, pain, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, incontinence, fertility, and various pregnancy and postpartum-related conditions.
We understand that being ready to talk about and address your pelvic floor wellness concerns comes from a place of strength. We are here to support and encourage you on your journey back to health so you can return to doing what you love! If you are ready to take the first step in reclaiming your pelvic health and wellness, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.