Why Everything You Know About Pelvic Floor Health and Fertility Might Be Wrong
I never thought my pelvic floor could hold the key to my fertility journey — until I heard this game-changing advice.
It might sound surprising, but your pelvic floor does way more than just support your bladder or help you control your pee. According to pelvic floor physical therapist Sara Reardon, it’s a powerhouse that supports organs crucial for reproduction, like your uterus and bowels. In a recent NPR article titled 'Say no to power peeing' and other good tips from a pelvic floor physical therapist, Reardon reveals simple yet effective exercises and mantras like “squeeze before you sneeze” that not only strengthen these muscles but could also be the missing piece in your fertility puzzle.
Why is pelvic floor health so critical for fertility?
Many trying to conceive overlook the pelvic floor, yet it plays a pivotal role. The pelvic floor muscles help regulate blood flow, maintain organ position, and contribute to optimal reproductive function. Weakness or dysfunction here might contribute to difficulties with conception, painful intercourse, or challenges during insemination.
But here’s the twist — many people unintentionally harm their pelvic floors by 'power peeing' or straining too much. This misguided habit leads to muscle imbalances and tension that could negatively impact fertility outcomes.
How can you start making a difference today?
Sara Reardon’s approach is refreshingly accessible:
- Stop 'power peeing': Relax, don’t force it. This simple step prevents unnecessary stress on your pelvic muscles.
- Practice 'squeeze before you sneeze': It sounds quirky but preemptively engaging your pelvic floor before sudden movements strengthens control.
- Incorporate pelvic floor exercises daily: Also known as Kegels, these improve muscle tone and support reproductive health.
What does the data say about pelvic floor and conception success?
Though research specifically quantifying pelvic floor exercises and conception rates is emerging, related studies indicate pelvic floor rehab improves sexual function, reduces pain during intercourse, and supports healthier reproductive environments — all factors that foster fertility.
At-home insemination, a growing trend particularly in 2025, leverages these insights. Combining pelvic floor health with innovative, user-friendly tools can dramatically improve your chances.
Enter At-Home Insemination Kits: The Future of Fertility Care
Companies like MakeAMom are pioneering this by providing reusable, discreet kits tailored for various fertility needs:
- CryoBaby: Designed for low-volume or frozen sperm.
- Impregnator: For low motility sperm.
- BabyMaker: For sensitivity issues like vaginismus.
With an average success rate of 67%, MakeAMom kits empower individuals and couples to take control from the comfort of home — all while respecting privacy with plain packaging and cost-effective reusability. Their commitment to detailed resources makes them a smart companion for anyone who wants to combine pelvic floor strengthening with practical fertility tools.
How to integrate pelvic floor health with your fertility routine?
- Educate yourself: Dive into expert advice like Sara Reardon’s tips and reliable at-home insemination guides.
- Be consistent: Like any training, results compound over weeks and months.
- Use the right tools: Explore options that suit your specific fertility profile and comfort.
- Monitor progress: Keep track of your cycle, symptoms, and any changes in sexual comfort or pelvic tone.
The curious connection you didn’t expect
One of the most underappreciated fertility enhancers is confidence — knowing you’re doing everything scientifically and holistically possible. The intersection of physical therapy insights and innovative at-home solutions bridges that gap, offering hope and control in a journey often fraught with uncertainty.
Ready to unlock your fertility potential?
If strengthening your pelvic floor sounds like the crucial next step, why not also explore how specialized at-home insemination kits can complement this approach? Combining evidence-based pelvic health with tailored tools could redefine your path to parenthood.
We’d love to hear from you — have you tried pelvic floor exercises during your TTC journey? What changes did you notice? Share your experiences below and join the conversation!
Remember, knowledge is power. Your body is smarter than you think, and with the right support, you can unlock its full potential.
Read the full NPR piece for more surprising tips from Sara Reardon here.