The perineum is a discreet muscle… but one surrounded by many misconceptions! Between hearsay, taboos, and oversimplifications, it’s hard to separate fact from fiction.

So today, let’s set the record straight: here are 8 common misconceptions about the perineum, put into perspective.

Ready to change your perspective on this essential muscle?

Common misconception #1: “The pelvic floor is just a women’s issue”

False, and this is undoubtedly the most persistent myth.

Men also have a perineum, which supports their organs, contributes to continence, and plays a role in sexual intimacy. It can weaken with age or after prostate surgery.

In short, the perineum has no gender.

Common misconception #2: “You only need to take care of it after giving birth”

False. It’s true that pregnancy and childbirth put a lot of strain on the perineum. But many other factors can also affect it: age, menopause, intense exercise, chronic constipation, surgery…

Taking care of your pelvic floor is beneficial throughout your life, at any age.

Common misconception #3: “Urinary incontinence is normal as you get older”

False. Urinary incontinence is common, but it is not an inevitable part of aging.

In many cases, appropriate rehabilitation can significantly reduce it or even eliminate it entirely.

Considering it “normal” and resigning yourself to it means missing out on solutions that are available.

Myth #4: “The more I contract my pelvic floor muscles, the better”

False. A healthy pelvic floor is not one that is constantly tight.

Like any muscle, it needs to alternate between contraction and relaxation. In fact, a perineum that is too tense (hypertonic) can cause just as many problems as one that is too weak.

The goal is balance, not constant contraction.

Common misconception #5: “There’s nothing you can do about the pelvic floor”

False, thankfully!

The pelvic floor is a muscle: it can be worked, strengthened, and retrained, just like you would build muscle in your arms or legs. Whether through exercises, professional guidance, or specialized devices, it’s entirely possible to take action.

Myth #6: “Pelvic floor rehabilitation is painful”

False. Pelvic floor rehabilitation is not supposed to be painful.

The exercises are progressive and tailored to each person’s pace. Techniques such as electrostimulation cause, at most, a slight tingling sensation—not pain.

If you experience any discomfort, you should report it to your healthcare provider.

Common misconception #7: “Working out on your own is enough”

Fact and Fiction. As a preventive measure, simple exercises at home can be helpful. But if you’re already experiencing symptoms (leakage, heaviness), exercises alone are often insufficient and may even be misdirected without a prior evaluation.

In this case, a healthcare professional remains essential for truly effective and safe rehabilitation.

Common misconception #8: “The pelvic floor is only about bladder control”

False. Continence is one of its functions, but not the only one.

The pelvic floor supports the organs, contributes to posture and body stability, and also plays a role in intimacy and pleasure.

It is a muscle with multiple functions—much more than just a “valve.”

To conclude

There are many misconceptions about the perineum: that it’s only for women, that it’s related solely to childbirth, that it’s bound to deteriorate with age, that it needs to be constantly tightened… These are all myths that die hard.

The reality is more encouraging: it’s an essential muscle, present in everyone, that can be strengthened and retrained at any age.

Understanding it better is the first step toward taking better care of it.

Please note: If you have symptoms or questions, the best course of action is to speak with a healthcare professional, who can guide you—possibly using a perineal rehabilitation probe for targeted exercises. At Sugar International, this has been our specialty for 30 years.

⇒ Want to learn more? (Re)read our article “The Perineum: Definition, Role, and Importance for Health ⬈ “ and ”