02/16/2026
PF doesn't need to contract during birth, it needs to get out of the way! It needs to lengthen while your core contracts, not an easy feat and one that needs to be practiced!
Functionally the core and the pelvic floor typically work together in a coordinated co-contraction. Sitting, standing, walking, lifting, jumping, yelling, singing, coughing, etc all require the core to elongate and engage AND the pelvic floor to lift and stabilize (but only at about 20-30% not 100%).
However, these muscles groups remain separate groups of muscles and they have the capacity to disassociate (or move in opposite directions) if needed.
The two times when the core and pelvic floor need to be able to disassociate in function are during bowel movements and during birth.
In both cases, the core is most effective when it is supporting the GI tract or uterus WHILE the pelvic floor is relaxing and opening. Think inhale, PF and and TA lengthen and relax, exhale, PF stays relaxed and core engages.
Understanding how to support this disassociation can improve intestinal tract function, address constipation, and prepare for stage 2 “the pushing phase” of labor.
When the core and pelvic floor consistently activate without disassociation then clients tend to use strategies that hold their breath and bear down to force bowel movements or pushing during delivery.
This is an ineffective strategy that can lead to hemorrhoids, pelvic organ prolapse, tearing of the perineum and more.
Sometimes, that strategy is needed due to baby's position, HR or BP, but not one we want to start with.
The same movement of the PF should happen with BM! Exhale and lengthen your PF as you have a BM.
Feel like you are not sure if you are doing it correctly or can't? Schedule a FREE 15 minute consult to learn more! Lets help you have an efficient and injury free birth!
