Pelvic Floor Health and Sexual Well-Being in Men

The promotion and maintenance of mens pelvic floor health is a growing concern as pelvic disorders affect a substantial number of men and their prevalence is expected to increase as a result of Canadas aging population. Pelvic floor disorders go beyond their physical consequences as they can negatively impact mens psychological, sexual, and social quality of life. Evidence strongly suggests pelvic floor muscle training can contribute to the promotion and maintenance of pelvic floor health and to the treatment of symptoms associated to pelvic floor disorders. Nonetheless, traditional ideals regarding mens behaviours can be a barrier to their engagement in health promoting behaviours. The associations between mens pelvic floor health, sexual health, and identification to traditional masculine ideals currently require a closer attention from researchers. Increasing evidence-based knowledge in this area will contribute to the development of effective interventions, products, and services focused on the maintenance and promotion of pelvic health and treatment of pelvic floor disorders that are tailored to mens experiences and needs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Elke Reissing

Student:

Emilie Gravel

Partner:

Standard Innovation Corporation

Discipline:

Psychology

Sector:

Medical devices

University:

University of Ottawa