The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. It serves several important functions, including supporting the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, and rectum), controlling urinary and fecal continence, and playing a role in sexual function. The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for various aspects of sexual pleasure and functioning, and their strength and coordination can significantly impact sexual experiences.
On this episode of Get Naked with Dr. Kate, Dr. Kate Balestrieri and Courtney Virden discuss the role the pelvic floor plays in sexual pleasure and how strengthening the pelvic floor can increase pleasure and orgasmic potential.
How Does the Pelvic Floor Impact Sexual Pleasure?
Orgasmic Function
Strong pelvic floor muscles are essential for achieving and enhancing orgasms in people of all genders. These muscles contract rhythmically during orgasm, contributing to intensity and pleasure. A weaker pelvic floor can result in less intense orgasms.
Vaginal Tightness
For people with vulvas, the pelvic floor muscles help maintain vaginal tightness. Weakness in these muscles can lead to reduced vaginal tone, potentially resulting in decreased sexual satisfaction for both partners.
Erectile Function
For people with penises, the pelvic floor muscles play a role in erectile function and ejaculation control. A weak pelvic floor can contribute to erectile difficulties and sexual dysfunctions such as premature ejaculation.
Sexual Sensation
The pelvic floor contains numerous nerve endings, and its muscles contract during sexual arousal. A strong pelvic floor can enhance sexual sensation and responsiveness. Conversely, a weak pelvic floor may reduce sensitivity and sexual pleasure.
Positioning and Comfort
Pelvic floor muscles also help control the angle and positioning of the penis during intercourse. A strong pelvic floor can provide better support and control, leading to more comfortable and enjoyable sexual experiences.
Vaginismus
Pelvic floor dysfunction, such as involuntary muscle spasms, known as vaginismus, or chronic pelvic pain, can lead to discomfort or pain during intercourse, negatively affecting sexual pleasure.
Incontinence
While not directly related to sexual pleasure, urinary incontinence or fecal incontinence resulting from weak pelvic floor muscles can create anxiety and embarrassment, which may impact sexual intimacy and confidence.
Having a weaker pelvic floor can be strengthened through exercises known as Kegel exercises. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles and can be beneficial for improving sexual function and overall pelvic health.
If you suspect you have issues related to your pelvic floor or are experiencing sexual difficulties due to it, it’s advisable to consult a pelvic floor professional or a pelvic floor physical therapist for guidance and appropriate treatment options. They can provide personalized exercises and therapies to address your specific needs and concerns.
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Courtney Virden is a pelvic floor expert, fitness trainer, and founder of iCORE Method. Her iCORE method app with core and pelvic floor programs is used by women worldwide to restore pelvic floor health and wellness. She is a contributor for Kourtney Kardashian’s Poosh and consults as a pelvic floor expert for many publications and outlets.
Dr. Kate and Courtney talk about how Pelvic floor strength and sexual pleasure are tied together.
There are 14 muscles in the Pelvic floor and if it’s not strengthened, it can cause low sensation in the pelvic area and can effect orgasm and climaxing.
They talk about why there is a connection between the pelvic floor and sexual enjoyment.
Many have heard of the Kegel exercises. Listen to Courtney’s advice and opinion on other ways to work on your core.
Hear about the collaboration between Courtney and Ashley Black who invented the Fascia Blaster and the program to work on the pelvic floor via the Fascia.
Dr. Kate and Courtney share ways to work on the pelvic floor and increase sexual enjoyment with a reasonable investment of time.
