3 Resolutions You Can Make for Your Pelvic Floor | Tennessee Valley Urology Center

We’ve reached the time of year when most of us take time to reflect on the year that’s passed and look forward to the year to come.

And while most of the time our resolution list for the new year focuses on things like losing weight and saving money, our team at Tennessee Valley Urology Center wants you to consider also resolving to maintain and improve the health of your pelvic floor.

Let’s take a look at some ways you can work to improve your pelvic floor in the new year:

Resolution 1: Reduce Your Risk of UTIs

The Urology Care Foundation states that around 60% of women and 12% of men will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point during their lifetime. Therefore, why not stay ahead of the game by learning ways you can prevent a UTI from occurring in the first place?

One of the main ways to help prevent a UTI is to make sure you are drinking plenty of water and going to the bathroom when you feel the need to go—not waiting.

For women, wiping front to back, staying away from irritating feminine products and choosing birth control wisely can help to prevent UTIs.

Resolution 2: Minimize Risk of Urinary Incontinence

Leaking urine is known as urinary incontinence. Losing control of your bladder can happen for a number of reasons, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause and being overweight.

Fortunately, living a healthy lifestyle can help you to largely prevent urinary incontinence. Strive to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, and quit smoking if you are currently a smoker.

Resolution 3: Get Plenty of Pelvic Floor Exercise

You should aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week for optimal health. But while that type of exercise is to focused on cardiovascular fitness and strength, you can also do exercises that benefit your pelvic floor.

Kegel exercises are the best way to make your bladder stronger. To perform a Kegel exercise, you want to first sit in a comfortable position. Then, while closing your eyes, picture tightening the muscles that stop the flow of urine. You want to hold this position for about three to five seconds.

After this time, you want to release the muscles to rest. Then repeat. Do this cycle at least 10 times.

When a urological issue arises, our team of professionals is here to help! Make an appointment with Tennessee Valley Urology Center today.