The Pelvic Floor and Sexual Function in Men
April 20, 2026
Sexual health is an important part of overall wellbeing, yet it is something many men find difficult to talk about. One factor that is often overlooked is the role of the pelvic floor in sexual function.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis. In men, these muscles help support the bladder and bowel, and they also play a key role in erections, ejaculation, and sexual sensation. When these muscles are not functioning well - whether they are too tight, too weak, or not coordinating properly - it can contribute to sexual difficulties.
Some men may experience erectile dysfunction, difficulty maintaining an erection, changes in ejaculation, reduced sensation, or discomfort during or after sex. These concerns can occur at any stage of life and are more common than many people realise.
There are a range of factors that can affect pelvic floor function. Stress and anxiety can increase muscle tension, while surgery (such as prostate surgery), prolonged sitting, or chronic pelvic pain can also play a role. Often, it is a combination of factors rather than a single cause.
It is also important to recognise the role of the mind-body connection. Stress, performance anxiety, and emotional wellbeing can all influence sexual function. Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of health often leads to the best outcomes.
Pelvic health physiotherapy can help identify how the pelvic floor is functioning and guide treatment. This may include exercises to improve strength or relaxation, breathing techniques, and strategies to reduce tension and improve coordination. Education and small changes can often make a meaningful difference.
Sexual dysfunction in men is common, and support is available. Understanding the connection between the pelvic floor and sexual health can be an important step toward improving confidence, comfort, and overall wellbeing.
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Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is very common in children. It is rarely intentional and is usually part of normal development, especially when children sleep very deeply and do not wake to bladder signals. There are a few reasons this can happen. Some children produce more urine overnight, some have a smaller bladder capacity, and others are still developing the brain–bladder connection needed to recognise and respond to a full bladder during sleep. It can also run in families, so a family history of bedwetting is common. A bedwetting alarm is one of the most effective treatment options. It works by detecting moisture as soon as wetting starts and then sounding or vibrating to wake the child. The aim is for the child to wake, stop urinating, and finish in the toilet. Over time, this helps train the brain to respond earlier to bladder signals during sleep. In the beginning, many children do not wake fully to the alarm and may need a parent to help them get up and use the toilet. With consistent use, this response usually improves, and children gradually start waking on their own. It is important that bedwetting is managed with patience and reassurance. It is not a behaviour issue, and children are not doing it on purpose. Pressure or punishment can make things more stressful and does not help with progress. Alongside alarm use, simple bladder habits can support progress, such as regular daytime toileting, good fluid intake earlier in the day, and managing constipation if present, as this can impact bladder function. Pelvic health physiotherapy can also provide support. A pelvic health physio can help set up and explain how to use a bedwetting alarm, making sure families feel confident from the start. We guide you on where to place the sensor, how to respond when it goes off, and what steps to follow overnight to build consistency. We also help troubleshoot common challenges and adjust the plan if needed, to improve the chances of success. Alongside this, we provide education and a structured plan tailored to the child and family, helping to support progress and confidence over time.
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Understanding Lichen Sclerosis: What You Need to Know Lichen Sclerosis (LS) is a condition we see more often than people realise — yet many individuals go years without the right diagnosis. At Pelvic Health Melbourne, our goal is to make conversations about vulval, penile and anal health easy, accessible and stigma-free. Here’s a clear guide to what LS is, how it’s treated, and how pelvic health physiotherapy can support you. What Is Lichen Sclerosis (LS)? Lichen Sclerosis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the vulva, penis, or the skin around the anus. A few key facts: It’s not contagious. You can’t pass LS on to a partner. It may have a genetic or autoimmune link. People with other autoimmune conditions can be more prone to developing it. It’s more commonly diagnosed in people in their 40s and 50s, though it can occur at any age. Common Signs and Symptoms LS can look and feel different for everyone, but some of the most common symptoms include: Itching, burning or general soreness around the vulva, penis, or anus Skin changes, such as pale or white patches, areas that appear thickened or “crinkled,” or skin that becomes thin and fragile over time Dryness and loss of natural skin oils, leading to cracks, fissures, bruising or even blisters Possible scarring or narrowing of the vaginal or anal openings in long-standing vulval or anal LS In penile LS, symptoms often affect the foreskin and glans (head of penis) If any of these symptoms sound familiar — especially if they’ve been going on for a while — it’s worth discussing LS with your GP or pelvic health clinician. Typical Management & Treatment in Australia The good news: with early diagnosis and treatment, LS can be well managed and long-term complications can be reduced. Common treatments include: Topical steroid ointments or creams to reduce inflammation Topical oestrogen if thinning or hormone-related changes are present (for vulval LS) Gentle skin care routines to restore moisture and protect fragile skin Silicone-based lubricants for comfortable intimacy Vaginal dilators or vibrators to help maintain stretch and comfort if the vaginal entrance has narrowed Your GP or dermatologist will oversee the medical management — but pelvic health physio plays a big role too. How Pelvic Health Physio Can Help Our clinicians at Pelvic Health Melbourne are experienced in recognising LS and supporting you through the often-overlooked side effects of the condition. We can help with: Identifying symptoms early and guiding you to your GP for diagnosis and treatment Addressing secondary pain, such as burning or discomfort caused by pelvic floor overactivity Managing scarring or narrowing at the vaginal entrance using dilators, moisturises and tailored lubrication advice Supporting intimacy goals, helping reduce muscle tightness and improve comfort during sexual activity Easing nerve-related pelvic pain, which can develop from chronic irritation or inflammation Managing LS isn’t just about treating the skin — it’s about restoring comfort, confidence and quality of life. Why Awareness Matters LS is not extremely common, and some practitioners may only encounter it rarely. This means it can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for recurrent thrush, eczema or dermatitis. Knowing the signs — and knowing to ask the question — can make a big difference. Early treatment helps: Control inflammation Prevent or reduce scarring Maintain skin health Improve long-term comfort and function If you suspect LS, trust your instincts and seek support. You're not alone — and there are effective treatments available. If you’d like guidance, reassurance, or help managing symptoms, our pelvic health physiotherapy team is here to support you every step of the way.
