The Importance of Diaphragmatic Breathing in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
When most people think about pelvic floor physical therapy, they imagine exercises like Kegels or stretches for hip mobility. What often surprises patients is just how important breathing is to pelvic floor health. In fact, diaphragmatic breathing (sometimes called belly breathing) is one of the most powerful tools we use in pelvic floor PT.
What is Diaphragmatic Breathing?
Diaphragmatic breathing means using your diaphragm — the dome-shaped muscle under your ribcage — as your primary breathing muscle. Instead of shallow breaths into your chest, your breath expands through your belly and ribs. This type of breathing isn’t just more calming; it also directly connects to your pelvic floor.
How Breathing and the Pelvic Floor Work Together
Your diaphragm and pelvic floor are like dance partners. When you inhale, the diaphragm lowers, and the pelvic floor lengthens and relaxes. When you exhale, the diaphragm lifts, and the pelvic floor gently recoils. This natural rhythm helps keep the pelvic floor strong, flexible, and well-coordinated.
When breathing patterns are shallow or restricted, the pelvic floor can become tense, weak, or poorly coordinated — leading to issues like leakage, constipation, pelvic pain, or pressure.
Benefits of Diaphragmatic Breathing for Pelvic Health
Practicing diaphragmatic breathing can support pelvic floor therapy in many ways:
Reduces tension: Helps relax overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles.
Improves coordination: Trains the pelvic floor to move naturally with your breath.
Supports bladder and bowel function: Encourages more complete emptying and easier bowel movements.
Eases pain: Calms the nervous system and decreases stress-related pelvic floor tension.
Boosts recovery: Supports healing during postpartum, post-surgery, or after pelvic injuries.
How to Practice Diaphragmatic Breathing
Here’s a simple way to get started at home:
Lie on your back or sit comfortably.
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
Inhale through your nose, allowing your belly and ribs to expand (your chest should stay relatively still).
Exhale gently through your mouth, letting your belly fall back in.
Repeat for 5–10 breaths, focusing on smooth, easy movement.
Practicing this a few minutes a day can make a noticeable difference over time.
Let’s Work Together
At Rhode Island Pelvic Wellness, diaphragmatic breathing is one of the foundations of our care. We don’t just teach you “what” to do — we help you understand why it matters for your body. Our sessions are one-on-one, tailored to your needs, and focus on your whole health.
Curious about how breathing techniques can support your pelvic floor? Read more about us and our approach here.
Wondering what to expect at your first session? Visit our FAQ page for clear answers to common questions.
Want to see if we treat your specific concern? Check out our services page for a full list of conditions we help patients with every day.
