We asked a pharmacist 5 pelvic health questions you're probably too shy to ask.

Thanks to our brand partner, Chemist warehouse

Does the thought of jumping on a trampoline make you hesitate? Ever feel a little tender after sex? Many of us have been there — that moment of doubt when you're trying to lift weights at the gym or keep up with an energetic toddler and something just doesn't feel quite right.

Pelvic health issues are more common than you might think and while they can be a little awkward to talk about, the silver lining is there are ways to manage them.

So, we spoke with Chemist Warehouse pharmacist Melissa Rea who provided helpful insights into five common pelvic health concerns and shared tips for addressing them.

What is pelvic health and why is it important?

Many women have heard the term "pelvic health", but aren't entirely sure what it actually means.

Thankfully, Rea was able to shed some light. "Pelvic health is looking at the general health of your pelvic organs and muscles and ensuring they are working as ideally as they can."

The easiest way to assess where your pelvic health is at?

When everything is working optimally, you're probably not thinking about it. It's when things start to go awry that you may need to take note.

"Signs of pelvic dysfunction — leaking urine, not being able to hold long enough to make it to the toilet, discomfort or pelvic pain — are an alarm to say 'hey'," said Rea.

While symptoms like bladder leakage, pelvic discomfort or pain during sex can feel awkward to talk about, taking care of your pelvic health shouldn't be put in the too-hard basket.

The good news is Chemist Warehouse makes accessing healthcare products easier with their qualified pharmacists available during opening hours, e-script processing, convenient home delivery options and competitive prescription pricing across their 550-plus Australian locations.

They're there to help with your everyday health questions and can point you in the right direction when you need more specialised care — because looking after yourself shouldn't be complicated or break the bank.

Is bladder leakage after having kids something to worry about?

Light bladder leakage is almost like mummy folklore — one of those things women discuss as a normal part of postpartum.

But is it? "Bladder leakage is a very common symptom," Rea said, "but it's not necessarily normal."

Rea explained that for women who are newly postpartum and still recovering from pregnancy, light leakage can be expected. However, if this continues when your baby is no longer an infant, it may be time to consult your healthcare professional.

"A lot of things can impact the health of your pelvic floor," Rea said. Pregnancy and birth are major factors and can have a huge impact.

The reassuring part? Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder leakage. Just like any other muscle, the pelvic floor responds well to exercise.

Sometimes called "Kegels", these exercises involve squeezing and releasing the muscles that support the bladder, bowel and uterus to help improve strength and function.

What should you do if you feel pelvic discomfort during exercise?

If running, jumping, lifting weights or generally moving your body is causing pelvic discomfort, then it's time to speak with an expert.

"Pain and discomfort should always warrant investigation," Rea said. Whether it's due to strain on already weak muscles or something else, getting to the bottom of the underlying cause is important.

"As we get older, we notice changes in our body," Rea said, "but that doesn't mean we need to accept a weakening pelvic floor as normal."

Speaking with a healthcare professional can often be the first step in uncovering what might be going on so that you can exercise comfortably and confidently.

Is it normal to feel pain during or after sex?

Pain or discomfort after sex isn't enjoyable, but it's often something that many women dismiss as not serious or serious enough to seek advice about.

Dysfunction and/or weakness in your pelvic muscles can lead to discomfort, but there could be other causes too.

"Pain during or after sex could [be caused] by a range of things," said Rea. "Pain is the trigger for seeking action and it's always worth investigating."

Your GP is often the first point of call for these kinds of issues. While it may seem daunting, Rea assures us that healthcare practitioners are there to help and support you in finding solutions.

How can you keep your pelvic muscles happy as you get older?

Like the rest of our body, our pelvic muscles age as we do, and, as with many aspects of our health, prevention is key.

Integrating regular pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine is one way to help prevent dysfunction and maintain a strong and stable pelvic floor.

Rea recommended "habit pairing" to make this a little easier. Habit pairing involves pairing something you'd like to do with something you have to do, for example, brushing your teeth. We should all be brushing twice a day, so while you're doing that, complete your pelvic floor exercises. With enough time, the two habits should become intertwined, so you automatically do one with the other.

Rea also recommended staying on top of other lifestyle factors like eating a healthy, fibre-filled diet, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.

Her final piece of very wise advice? If your body is trying to tell you something, listen to it!

"[Unfortunately] there is still a stigma attached to pelvic health issues," said Rea.

"But you don't have to grin and bear it. There are things you can do to manage symptoms and make a difference."

Visit Chemist Warehouse for accessible healthcare advice in-store or online. 

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any health condition, always seek health and medical advice from a qualified pharmacist or your healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Getty. 

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