Anne Hathaway has opened up about a health topic she wishes she had learned more about earlier in life: pelvic floor health.
The actress, who is expecting her third child, was recently asked what subject she would like to write a book about. Hathaway said pelvic floor health would be her choice, explaining that she discovered only later how much information had been unavailable to her when she was younger.
“I would probably want to write on pelvic floor health.”
Hathaway said that learning more about the subject as she got older had a positive impact on her life, including her energy and strength.
“I would just want to interview every single expert I could find and write like a bible that would actually really help a lot of women.”
Her comment drew an immediate response from her Verity co-star Dakota Johnson, who said she would definitely read such a book.
Why pelvic floor health matters
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and supporting tissues at the bottom of the pelvis. These structures play an important role in supporting pelvic organs and in functions including bladder and bowel control.
Dr Ravi Sankar Kirubanandan, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics, Kauvery Hospital, explained that the pelvic floor helps support structures within the abdomen and pelvis.
“Pelvic floor muscles in a human body form a very important structure which helps prevent all the structures of the abdomen from pushing down the pelvis.”
He also highlighted its importance for women, particularly in relation to childbirth and support of the pelvic organs.
Pelvic floor concerns can have different causes, and symptoms such as pelvic pain, urinary leakage or a feeling of pressure should not automatically be attributed to weak muscles. An appropriate medical assessment can help determine the underlying cause.
4 ways to support pelvic floor health
The specialist cited several measures and activities that can contribute to pelvic and overall physical health. However, individual exercise needs can vary, particularly after pregnancy, childbirth, surgery or when pain or incontinence is present.
1. Walking
Regular walking can help maintain general lower-body strength and physical fitness.
Dr Kirubanandan specifically recommended aiming for around 10,000 steps a day, while acknowledging the role of walking in maintaining the pelvic floor and thigh muscles.
Rather than treating 10,000 steps as a universal medical requirement, people should choose an activity level appropriate for their fitness, health and mobility.
2. Maintaining a healthy weight
Body weight can influence the amount of pressure placed on the pelvic floor.
Dr Kirubanandan recommended weight management for people who are overweight, explaining that excess weight can increase pressure on the pelvic floor.
A healthy weight range varies between individuals, and BMI is only one measure used when assessing health. Anyone considering significant weight loss should ideally discuss an appropriate target with a healthcare professional.
3. Squats
Squats engage several muscles around the hips, thighs and lower body and can form part of a broader strength-training routine.
Dr Kirubanandan suggested performing 10 squats daily as one way of supporting pelvic floor health.
However, correct technique is important. Anyone experiencing pelvic, back or knee pain should avoid pushing through discomfort and consider seeking guidance from a physiotherapist or other qualified professional.
4. Sitz bath and breathing exercises
Dr Kirubanandan also discussed the use of a warm sitz bath alongside a breathing exercise involving the lower abdomen.
According to his explanation, a person can sit in warm water and practise controlled breathing while engaging the lower abdominal region for several seconds before releasing it.
He said this approach may be particularly useful following childbirth and for people dealing with conditions such as coccydynia or urinary incontinence.
However, a sitz bath is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. Anyone with persistent pelvic pain, urinary symptoms or other pelvic-floor concerns should speak with a healthcare professional.
When should you see a doctor?
Pelvic floor problems can have multiple causes, and the appropriate treatment depends on the specific condition.
Dr Kirubanandan stressed the importance of professional assessment when someone has pelvic floor weakness or pain.
“I think cases with poor pelvic health are complex, but again I would highly recommend to visit a orthopedician, or a physician, or a physiotherapist to assess what is the cause for the pelvic floor weakness or the pain.”
A doctor or physiotherapist specialising in pelvic health can assess symptoms and, where appropriate, recommend targeted exercises or other treatment.
This can be particularly relevant during pregnancy and after childbirth, when the pelvic floor can undergo significant changes.
Anne Hathaway’s message about learning more
Hathaway’s comments highlight a broader issue around women’s health: many people may not learn about pelvic floor function until they experience symptoms or reach a stage of life where the subject becomes more relevant.
Her desire to create an accessible resource reflects her own experience of discovering information later in life.
For anyone concerned about pelvic floor health, however, general exercises should not replace personalised medical advice. Symptoms such as persistent pelvic pain, urinary or bowel leakage, pelvic pressure or changes following childbirth warrant professional evaluation.
Medical Note
This article is for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Exercise recommendations may not be appropriate for everyone. People who are pregnant, recently postpartum, experiencing pelvic pain or dealing with urinary or bowel symptoms should consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning a new exercise programme.
