Understanding Men's Pelvic Health

While society has made some strides in discussing women’s pelvic health, men’s health still lags behind. Men often find it challenging to discuss their health issues openly due to societal expectations and traditional gender roles that emphasise strength and self-reliance.

This reluctance to show vulnerability can lead to men ignoring symptoms and avoiding medical advice, which can have serious consequences. Unlike women, who generally feel more comfortable sharing their health concerns and seeking support, men may perceive discussing health as a sign of weakness.

By encouraging open conversations and challenging these norms, we can help create a more supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable talking about their health.

In Australia, pelvic health issues cost our economy around $84 billion. This cost reflects the broader impact of pelvic health issues, including reduced activity, social withdrawal, anxiety and depression, decreased physical activity and then on to other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes.

Men’s Pelvic Health covers problems or pain in the male pelvis. This can include:

• Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) or prostatitis

• Pain from the pudendal nerve (pudendal neuralgia)

• Dysfunction of the male pelvic floor be it too weak or too overactive.

• Issues with male sexual organ function or comfort.

• Problems with toileting systems both urinary and rectal.

In a lot of cases, there is a problem with the muscles or the pelvic floor.

Most guys don’t realise they have a pelvic floor.

But you do! Try clearing your throat. Feel that sensation between your legs? That’s your pelvic floor.

Now, imagine walking into the sea. What’s the first thing you pull back in? That’s your pelvic floor contracting! So, now you know.

Why Discuss Men’s Health?

Unfortunately, about one-third of men over 40 experience some form of urinary dysfunction. This could be related to the prostate enlargement, post-prostate surgery, or other sources of pain or muscle changes such as obesity, excessive gym work, cycling and stressful work or life environments.

Symptoms can include leakage, urgency, or difficulty passing urine. It can also cause problems with the bowels such as constipation, or urgency or leakage.

Then there's those men who suffer terribly from pain in the pelvic area. there are a number of reasons for this too!

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is relatively well-known in our society and affects many men as they age. The prostate is located around the urethra (the wee tube). As men age, the prostate can enlarge and potentially become cancerous, squeezing the urethra and causing urinary problems as well as sexual dysfunction.

Sexual Dysfunction in Men

Sexual dysfunction is a broad term that includes various issues preventing satisfaction from sexual activity. Common types of sexual dysfunction in men include:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse.

• Premature or Delayed Ejaculation: Ejaculation that occurs sooner or later than desired.

• Low Libido: Reduced interest in sexual activity, which can stem from hormonal imbalances, psychological factors, or chronic health conditions.

• Pain with stimulation or intercourse

The good news is that these problems can usually be easily assessed and treated, often with simple lifestyle changes and specific exercises prescribed by an experienced pelvic health physiotherapist. It all starts with a conversation.

Vital Core’s Expertise

At Vital Core, we have several physiotherapists who are highly trained and experienced in helping men with pelvic health issues.

We are also fortunate to have one of the very few male pelvic health physiotherapists, Thomas, on our team. For men who prefer discussing their issues with another male, Thomas provides a comfortable and understanding environment.

If you or someone you love is suffering from a pelvic health issue, please talk to us. We're here to help.

Lets get men discussing their health!