What Does Breathing Have to Do with the Pelvic Floor?
The answer: EVERYTHING.
In pelvic floor physical therapy, we use breath a lot. At first, it might seem a little odd — why would your breathing matter when you're dealing with leakage, prolapse, or core weakness? But once you understand how closely the pelvic floor and your breathing patterns are connected, it makes perfect sense.
Let’s break it down.
First, a Little Anatomy
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles forming a supportive, bowl-like structure at the base of your pelvis. These muscles are often referred to as the pelvic diaphragm — and that’s not just a fun nickname.
Your respiratory diaphragm (the primary muscle responsible for breathing) and your pelvic floor actually mirror one another. Think of them as the ceiling and the floor of a pressure system.
When you inhale, your respiratory diaphragm contracts and flattens downward to make space for your lungs. As this happens, your pelvic floor should also descend slightly. Why? Because of the pressure changes within the core canister.
What Is the “Core Canister”?
In pelvic floor PT, we often refer to the "core canister" when talking about your intra-abdominal system. Here’s what makes up the canister:
Top: Respiratory diaphragm
Bottom: Pelvic floor
Sides: Abdominal and deep back muscles
This system works like a pressure chamber. When pressure increases inside the canister, whether from lifting, jumping, sneezing, or even pooping, something’s got to give.
If pressure isn’t well managed, it can lead to issues like:
Hernias
Hemorrhoids
Pelvic organ prolapse
Urinary leakage
So, how do we manage that pressure?
With our breath.
Breath: The Pressure Regulator
So, how do you manage intra-abdominal pressure?
With proper breathing mechanics.
Exhale during exertion: Blowing out when lifting or pushing helps offload pressure from the pelvic floor muscles.
Inhale to relax: A deep diaphragmatic breath (aka “belly breathing”) promotes relaxation of a tense or overactive pelvic floor.
Learning how to coordinate breath with movement is one of the most powerful tools in pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Why Breathing Exercises Matter in Pelvic Floor PT
Breathing may seem simple, but it’s often the first step in treating pelvic floor dysfunction. In fact, many first sessions in pelvic floor physical therapy start with targeted breathing exercises.
These are not just for relaxation—they are key to:
Reducing pelvic tension
Supporting organ function
Preventing injury
Improving performance
Ready to Feel the Difference?
If you're dealing with leakage, pelvic pressure, core weakness, or tension, it’s time to address your breath.
I offer 1-on-1, personalized sessions in pelvic floor physical therapy for women of all activity levels. Together, we’ll look at your breathing patterns, posture, and movement strategies to restore function from the inside out.
👉 Schedule an appointment today or learn more about pelvic floor PT.
