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Taking charge of your wellbeing: A guide to pelvic health
By Gloria Kolb, co-founder & CEO – Elitone
Pelvic health is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. It encompasses the proper functioning of the muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the pelvic organs and plays a critical role in daily activities and quality of life.
Despite its importance, pelvic health remains shrouded in silence and stigma.
Many people hesitate to discuss issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual health concerns, and pelvic organ prolapse due to societal taboos and misconceptions.
This reluctance to talk openly can lead to prolonged suffering and a diminished sense of well-being.
By shedding light on the various aspects of pelvic health, we aim to break the taboo, educate on everyday issues, and empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their pelvic health.
Understanding the significance of pelvic health and addressing problems early can lead to a more vibrant, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Understanding pelvic health
Pelvic health refers to the optimal functioning of the pelvic floor, which forms a supportive base for the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum.
These muscles play a crucial role in urinary and faecal continence, sexual function, and support during physical activities.
The pelvic floor acts like a hammock, providing stability and support to the pelvic organs.
When these muscles are strong and functioning correctly, they help maintain proper organ positioning and function.
However, various factors such as aging, childbirth, surgery, obesity, and chronic straining can weaken or damage the pelvic floor muscles, leading to a range of health issues.
The importance of pelvic health
Neglecting pelvic health can lead to various complications, from mild discomfort to severe disruptions in daily activities.
For instance, incontinence can result in social embarrassment and a reluctance to engage in physical activities, while chronic pelvic pain can interfere with work, exercise, and personal relationships.
Sexual health issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction can affect intimacy and emotional connection with partners.
The long-term consequences of ignoring pelvic health can be profound, leading to chronic pain, mental health struggles, and decreased independence.
Early intervention and proactive management of pelvic health are essential for preventing these outcomes and promoting overall well-being.
Recognising the importance of pelvic health empowers individuals to seek appropriate care and take steps to maintain or restore their pelvic floor function, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.
Common pelvic health issues
Understanding the common issues that affect pelvic health is crucial for recognising symptoms early and seeking appropriate care. Some of the most prevalent pelvic health problems include:
- Incontinence: This refers to the involuntary leakage of urine or faeces. Different types include stress, urge, overflow, and functional incontinence. Causes range from weakened pelvic floor muscles to nerve damage and underlying health conditions.
- Pelvic pain: This discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvic region can be brought on by chronic conditions like endometriosis and interstitial cystitis. Acute issues such as infections or injuries can cause persistent pain, impacting daily activities and emotional well-being.
- Sexual health concerns: These include dyspareunia (painful intercourse), decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. Causes can be hormonal, muscular, or psychological. Addressing these concerns is vital for maintaining intimacy and relationship satisfaction.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: This occurs when the pelvic organs descend and fall out of place, with common causes including childbirth, aging, and obesity. Symptoms range from heaviness in the pelvic area and discomfort sitting down to urinary and bowel dysfunction. Early intervention is essential for managing symptoms.
Understanding and addressing these common pelvic health issues is vital for improving quality of life and overall well-being.
Awareness, open communication, and timely medical intervention can help manage these conditions effectively, empowering individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Diagnosis and treatment options
Pelvic health issues are typically diagnosed through routine pelvic examinations, which assess the position and support of pelvic organs and can identify problems such as prolapse and muscle weakness.
Imaging tests, including ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans, provide detailed images of the pelvic area, helping to diagnose structural problems and guide treatment plans.
Additionally, questionnaires and symptom checklists assist healthcare providers in understanding the severity and impact of symptoms on daily life, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
Treatment options for pelvic health issues fall into two main categories: conservative measures and medical interventions.
Conservative measures often serve as the first line of defence.
Lifestyle modifications, such as diet changes, bladder training, weight management, and avoiding heavy lifting, can alleviate symptoms.
Pelvic floor physical therapy, involving exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, can improve function and reduce symptoms.
Non-surgical devices, like pessaries and stimulation, can help manage prolapse and incontinence without the need for surgery.
When conservative measures are insufficient, medical interventions may be necessary to help manage pain, inflammation, and symptoms of incontinence or prolapse.
Minimally invasive procedures such as injections or medication may offer relief for various pelvic health issues.
In severe cases, surgical options like pelvic floor reconstruction and sling procedures for incontinence or prolapse may be required.
It is crucial to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of surgery with a healthcare provider.
Treatment should be tailored to each person’s specific condition, symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences.
However, it is key to note that more medical interventions may not be more productive than conservative ones.
Holistic approaches to pelvic health
Adopting holistic approaches to pelvic health can significantly enhance overall well-being by addressing physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
Regular exercise, particularly pelvic floor exercises like Kegels, strengthens these muscles, while whole-body activities such as yoga and Pilates improve core strength and flexibility to support pelvic health.
Specific yoga poses like Bridge Pose and Goddess Pose target the pelvic floor, while mindfulness practices reduce stress.
Nutrition is also vital. A fibre-rich diet prevents constipation, which reduces pelvic strain, while hydration helps maintain urinary health, and anti-inflammatory foods help manage pelvic pain.
Protein can help build the needed pelvic muscles.
Alternative adjunct therapies, including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and biofeedback, can complement traditional treatments in alleviating pain, improving muscle function, and enhancing overall pelvic health.
Integrating these holistic methods fosters a balanced approach to maintaining and improving pelvic health, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Breaking the taboo and empowering yourself
Breaking the taboo surrounding pelvic health is essential for empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being.
Societal stigma often discourages open discussions about pelvic health issues, leaving many people feeling isolated and ashamed of their experiences.
By normalizing conversations about pelvic health, individuals can overcome this stigma and access the support and resources they need.
Empowering oneself to take charge of pelvic health begins with education and awareness.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of pelvic health issues allows individuals to recognise when they need help and seek appropriate care.
Open communication with healthcare providers is crucial for discussing concerns and developing personalised treatment plans.
Additionally, joining support groups or seeking guidance from mental health professionals can provide valuable emotional support and validation.
By embracing a proactive approach to pelvic health and advocating for their own well-being, individuals can reclaim control over their bodies and lives.
By fostering a culture of openness and support, we can break down barriers and ensure everyone feels empowered to prioritise their pelvic health and live their lives to the fullest.
Gloria Kolb is the CEO and co-founder of Elitone, an FDA-cleared, non-invasive wearable treatment for women with urinary incontinence. Elitone has won “Best New Product” by My Face My Body awards, Sling Shot 2020, and numerous startup pitch awards.
As an inventor with 30 patents, Gloria’s accolades include being featured in Forbes as a Top Scientist Driving Innovation in Women’s Health.
Her creative designs and problem-solving abilities have earned her recognition, such as Boston’s “40 Under 40” Award and MIT Review’s “World’s Top Innovators under 35”.
With Mechanical Engineering degrees from MIT and Stanford and an Entrepreneurship MBA from Babson College, Gloria’s expertise extends to consulting, where she evaluates technology and clinical markets for various inventions and startups.
GLP-1 drugs taken before conception were not linked to higher pregnancy risks in new research, which suggested they may even offer some protection.
Women of reproductive age are increasingly prescribed GLP-1 drugs for weight-management support, but the risks and benefits of using them before pregnancy remain poorly understood.
The findings support continuing the use of GLP-1 medicines in women with metabolic risk factors who are considering pregnancy, said Cara Dolin, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and co-author of the research, which was presented at the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine pregnancy meeting in February 2026.
“While there’s more research to be done, this data provides some reassurance that it is not harmful to be taking a GLP-1 if you’re planning a pregnancy, and that having done so may in fact benefit you by optimising your preconception metabolic health.”
The researchers examined electronic medical records for patients with a pre-pregnancy BMI of more than 30 who delivered at more than 20 weeks’ gestation. The data were reviewed for two studies: one assessed the link between pre-pregnancy GLP-1 use and the risk of gestational diabetes, while the second looked at the risk of severe maternal morbidity in patients with obesity.
Women with obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other cardiometabolic disorders have a higher risk of pregnancy complications including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, stillbirth, caesarean section and other outcomes. While GLP-1 medicines can help manage these conditions, they are contraindicated during pregnancy, and women are typically advised to stop the medication two months before trying to conceive.
However, stopping the drugs can often lead to rebound weight gain or worsening metabolic health. A 2025 study suggested this rebound worsened some pregnancy outcomes, but the risks and benefits are still poorly understood, Dolin said.
“There is a lot we just don’t know, which is why we wanted to look at our experience here with our Cleveland Clinic patients and see whether taking GLP-1 drugs before pregnancy was causing harm or if it was beneficial and helping patients have healthier pregnancies.”
Researchers analysed data for more than 8,000 women who had obesity but did not have diabetes before they became pregnant. They compared outcomes for 208 women who had been prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists before pregnancy with those who had not been prescribed the medication.
Women in the GLP-1 group had more risk factors heading into pregnancy. They tended to be older and have a higher body mass index, higher rates of bariatric surgery and chronic high blood pressure, and present earlier for prenatal care.
However, outcomes for the two groups were similar. Researchers found that the GLP-1 group did not have higher rates of gestational diabetes, severe maternal morbidity or other adverse maternal outcomes, suggesting that the medication may have helped mitigate elevated risk factors.
“I think this is a really important signal, and it may reflect that these patients were able to optimise their metabolic health prior to conception.”
“It shows there’s potential to use these drugs in a more targeted way with patients who are planning a pregnancy and have these different comorbidities and obesity.”
While the findings suggest that using GLP-1 drugs before pregnancy may be beneficial in women with metabolic risk factors, having a plan to stop the medicines before conception is essential, Dolin noted. In some cases, patients may be moved to an alternative medication that is safe for pregnancy and can be used to help manage their metabolic health during pregnancy.
Providers with patients who are taking GLP-1 medicines and planning a pregnancy should consider referral to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for pre-pregnancy counselling.
“We can have a nuanced conversation with the patient about taking the medication, what the benefits are, what the potential risks are, and help them formulate a plan to transition off the medication once they’re ready to start trying to conceive,” she said.
Obesity may be a key driver of rising rates of 11 cancers in adults under 50, a study has found.
The 11 cancers were thyroid, multiple myeloma, liver, kidney, gallbladder, colorectal, pancreatic, endometrial, oral, breast and ovarian cancers.
All except oral cancer are known to be linked to excess weight, with researchers saying raised insulin levels and inflammation may play a part.
The findings come from researchers at the Institute of Cancer Research, London and Imperial College London, who analysed national cancer registry data for England from 2001 to 2019.
In England, around 31,000 cancers were diagnosed in people aged 20 to 49 in 2023, equal to roughly one in every 1,000 people. This compares with 244,000 cases in the 50 to 79 age group, where the rate is around one in 100.
Concerns have been growing in recent years over rising rates of cancers such as bowel and ovarian in younger adults.
Among the younger group, breast cancer was the most common, with 8,500 cases, followed by bowel cancer at 3,000 and melanoma skin cancer with 2,800 diagnoses.
For nine of the 11 cancers identified, rates are rising in younger adults but also increasing in older adults, who are much more likely to develop the disease. Bowel and ovarian cancer were the exceptions, rising only in younger age groups.
The researchers found that bowel cancer rates in younger women linked to BMI rose faster, from 0.9 to 1.6 per 100,000 people, than those not linked to BMI, which rose from 6.4 to 9.6 per 100,000 people. Similar patterns were recorded for men.
However, the authors noted that the overall number of cases of BMI-linked bowel cancer in younger women remained lower than those not linked to BMI, suggesting other factors must be contributing to the increase.
Several suspected contributors, including ultra-processed foods, antibiotic use and air pollution, have been proposed in recent years. However, many of these factors have also shown stable or declining trends in the UK, the team said.
Despite the rise in several cancer rates among younger adults over the past two decades, most established risk factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, red or processed meat intake, low fibre diets and lack of exercise, remained stable or even declined in the period leading up to diagnosis.
This suggests these traditional risk factors are unlikely to account for much of the increase in cancer cases.
By contrast, overweight and obesity, which have increased steadily since 1995, could be key factors in the rise in cases. The team suggested that between 2001 and 2019, around 20 per cent of the increase in bowel cancer was explained by increases in BMI over that period.
However, the researchers said rises in BMI alone are not enough to explain the overall increase in cancer among younger adults in England and that there are likely to be other causes.
Data also suggest around 15 per cent of bowel cancer in younger people could be linked to being overweight or obese, with around 40 to 50 per cent in total linked to the combined effect of known risk factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol and smoking.
Montse García-Closas, professor at the ICR, said more research was needed, but “we cannot wait to act”.
She told a media briefing: “Our main conclusion is that although BMI is our best clue, much of the increase still remains unexplained, and we’ve done some additional analysis that show that most likely what’s missing is not just a single cause unexplained, but it’s likely a combination of multiple factors that act together.”
Amy Berrington, professor at the ICR, said: “Although rates have been increasing, cancer in young people is still a rare disease.”
Marc Gunter, professor at Imperial, said obesity was a known risk factor for around 19 different cancers.
He added: “For some of these cancers, including colorectal (bowel) cancer, we think this could be partly caused by higher levels of hormones such as insulin, which is often elevated in people with obesity, as well as inflammation.
“We know people with obesity have higher levels of insulin, and insulin is a growth factor and has been linked to cancer.
“In a recent study, we actually found that insulin in particular might be playing a role in early onset colorectal (bowel) cancer, and this is actually an area of very active research at the moment.”
The researchers called for large, long-term studies to identify all the biological and environmental factors that could explain rising cancer rates in young adults.
García-Closas added: “Tackling obesity across all ages, particularly in children and young people, through stronger public health policies and wider access to effective interventions, could slow the rise in cancer and prevent many cancers and must become a national priority.”
Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “Globally, and in the UK, we’re seeing a small increase in cancer rates in adults under 50.
“The picture is complex and we need more research to understand what’s driving the trend, but this study helps to fill in some gaps.
“Overweight and obesity doesn’t explain the rise in full though. Improvements in detection are likely to also be playing a part, meaning that more people are being diagnosed at a younger age.
“Preventing cancer cases must be a priority for the UK government. Smoking remains a leading cause of cancer in adults under 50, which is why the Tobacco and Vapes Bill receiving royal assent this week is such a historic moment.
“Measures to restrict the advertising and promotion of junk food, introducing mandatory reporting and targets on healthy food sales, and making nutritious food more accessible to everyone would all help people keep a healthy weight.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched an AI tool in beta to help policymakers, experts and healthcare professionals access sexual and reproductive health information faster.
Called ChatHRP, the tool was created by WHO’s Human Reproduction Programme and draws only on verified research and guidance collected by HRP and WHO.
It uses natural language processing and retrieval-augmented generation to produce referenced content and cut the time spent searching through documents across different platforms and databases.
WHO said ChatHRP also has multilingual capabilities and low-bandwidth functionality to support use in a wide range of settings.
The beta-testing phase is aimed at a broad professional audience, including policymakers, healthcare workers, researchers and civil society groups.
WHO said the tool can help users quickly access up-to-date evidence, find sources for academic work and verify information on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Examples of questions it can answer include the latest violence against women data in Oceania for women aged 15 to 49, recommendations on managing diabetes during pregnancy, and whether PrEP and contraception can be used at the same time. PrEP is medicine used to reduce the risk of getting HIV.
WHO added that the system will be updated regularly as new HRP materials are published and includes a feedback loop so users can flag gaps in the information provided.
The launch comes amid wider concern about misinformation in sexual and reproductive health.
A 2025 scoping review found that misinformation in digital spaces is a systemic issue that can undermine human rights, reinforce discriminatory social norms and exclude marginalised voices.
The review also said misinformation can affect health systems by shaping provider knowledge and practice, disrupting service delivery and creating barriers to equitable care.
WHO said ChatHRP is intended to give users streamlined access to reliable information as a counter to “algorithms, opinions, or misinformation”.
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