Wondering how your pelvic floor reeeeally feels each day? Here is a letter from your pelvic floor and tips on how to care for it.
Hello, lovely.
It’s me — your pelvic floor.
You probably don’t think about me much, and that’s okay. I quietly hold everything together — your bladder, uterus, and bowel — while helping you breathe, move, and stay upright. I’m not the showy six-pack type, but the deep, intelligent core that keeps you balanced and strong.
When we first met
In your younger years, I was springy and full of energy. I worked in perfect rhythm with your breath. When you laughed, I lifted. When you ran, I stabilised. You never had to think about me, I simply did my job, effortlessly and joyfully.
When you became a home
Then came pregnancy. The hormones that softened your ligaments also softened me. I stretched and adapted to hold your growing baby, bearing the pressure of every step and sneeze. For nine months, I worked nonstop.
And when it was time to give birth, I opened … wider than you could ever imagine. Whether you birthed vaginally or by caesarean, I carried the weight of pregnancy and helped bring life safely into the world.
After the birth
Afterwards, I was tired and fragile. I didn’t need “snapping back”. I needed breath, patience, and gentle movement. When you ignored me, I tightened in fear. When you moved with awareness, I softened and healed. True recovery is a conversation, not a command.
How I thrive
I love mindful movement , especially Pilates done with breath and control. Every time you exhale and gently draw me up, I come alive. Every time you inhale and let me release, I recover.
When you stand tall, I lift with ease. When you slump or hold your breath, I struggle. We’re deeply connected, you and I. I mirror how you live and move.
I don’t need constant squeezing; I need balance: lift, release, love.
When I’m struggling
If you leak when you laugh, or feel pain, please notice. I’m not weak, I’m calling for help. A women’s health physiotherapist can listen to me and teach you how to care for me properly.
As you grow older
Now, as oestrogen fades, I feel a little thinner, a little drier, but I’m still here for you. Movement, hydration, breath, and awareness keep me strong. Pilates, walking, laughing, all help me thrive. This isn’t decline; it’s evolution.
A promise
I’ve supported you through every chapter: birth, heartbreak, joy, and laughter. I’ve held you steady when you pushed too hard and softened when you finally exhaled.
All I ask is this: don’t forget me now. You don’t need to control me, just connect with me.
Together, we’ll keep you standing tall, breathing deeply, and moving freely for decades to come.
How to care for your pelvic floor
- Breathe deeply. Inhale to soften, exhale to lift.
- Move often. Sitting too long makes me sleepy.
- Exhale to lift. Before lifting anything heavy, breathe out first.
- Stay curious. Check in with a women’s health physio.
- Be kind. Strength comes from awareness, not force.
With strength and quiet love,
Your Pelvic Floor
By Nichola Stevenson Mum, Pilates Instructor, Studio Owner and Speaker.
www.clubpilates.com.au/location/sippy-downs / 07 5445 6963
Also from Nicola…
Why Pilates is the smartest postnatal move you can make
The motherhood slouch, and why you can’t stand up straight anymore
