Confidence starts at the core: How pelvic wellness fuels women’s freedom

Sara Ameli

Submitted photo

Summer should be a season of freedom — of movement, expression and joy. But for many women, it’s also a season of self-consciousness. Whether it’s hesitating to wear a swimsuit, skipping workouts or limiting travel plans, these behaviors often stem from a root cause that doesn’t receive enough attention: the pelvic floor.

As a board-certified nurse practitioner focused on women’s wellness, I’ve seen how often pelvic health concerns go unspoken. Issues like stress incontinence, pelvic discomfort or core instability can arise after childbirth, with age and menopause, or even from high-intensity fitness routines. While these experiences are incredibly common, many women are told they’re just a normal part of aging or motherhood. But they’re not something women have to live with.

Pelvic floor health is essential to overall wellness. This internal group of muscles supports the bladder, bowel and uterus, and when weakened, it can affect posture, sexual health, continence and confidence. Like any other part of the body, the pelvic floor can be strengthened, restored and supported, with the right approach.

Here are a few tips for women looking to feel more confident this summer and beyond:

Pay attention to the signals

Frequent urination, or leaking during exercise, jumping on a trampoline, sneezing, coughing or laughing, and even lower back pain can be signs that the pelvic floor needs support. These symptoms are often brushed off, but they’re worth addressing with a trusted provider.

Don’t underestimate the role of core stability

The pelvic floor is part of your deep core system. Strengthening this area can improve balance, reduce discomfort and restore body confidence. Even gentle practices like Pilates or yoga, when done with pelvic alignment in mind, can make a difference.

Improving pelvic strength enhances multiple aspects of daily life, and some are surprised to find that includes intimacy. A strong, supported core and pelvic floor can improve blood flow, increase sensation and reduce discomfort, making intimacy more enjoyable and empowering at every age.

Know that non-invasive treatments exist

Technology has evolved to offer safe, effective and discreet options for improving pelvic wellness.

Treatments like EMSELLA use electromagnetic energy to stimulate deep pelvic floor muscles, essentially delivering the equivalent of thousands of Kegels in a single session. Similarly, FemiLift can rejuvenate vaginal tissue and support healing with no downtime, making it a highly sought-after service.

Give yourself permission to prioritize pelvic health

We often delay care for ourselves until things get worse. But investing in pelvic health isn’t just about preventing problems, it’s about restoring confidence, comfort and the ability to live fully in your body.

Pelvic wellness can be transformative — not just physically, but emotionally. Whether you’re a new mom, navigating menopause or simply want to feel more in control of your body, starting from the core may be the most empowering choice a woman makes.

Editor’s note: Sara Ameli is a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Haus of Confidence in Scottsdale. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.