Coughs are not a pelvic floor’s best friend
This Christmas, we have continued the theme of coughs, colds and other illnesses of the first school term with a persistent cough for three weeks now.
And no matter how “well” your pelvic floor health is, a long term cough can wreak havoc. If this is happening to you, or if you suffer in the future there’s something to remember:
This does not mean your pelvic floor is broken. It means it’s struggling with the extra pressure from constant coughing and it’s probably tired, as are you. You can get back to optimum pelvic health as you heal and recover.
There are a few things you can do help yourself:
Don’t wear tight trousers such as high waisted jeans or even leggings. These can put an extra squeeze on your core.
You can physically support yourself by putting pressure on your perineum as you cough (with your hand). Or you might use an internal (or external) support system given to you from a women’s health physio.
You can “pre engage” your pelvic floor (if you can)
Drink plenty or water and cut down on caffeine which can irritate the bladder
Try and rest. Perhaps put your legs up the wall or on a sofa and spend some time breathing. Know that this phase will pass.
