Many women experience pelvic floor weakness, however most would not discuss this issue with a healthcare professional and almost half are not even aware that there is a solution to this problem, a new survey has revealed.

Pelvic floor weakness is mainly caused by pregnancy, childbirth, the menopause, being overweight and having a hysterectomy. Symptoms include accidentally leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh or exercise, having to use the toilet frequently, having difficulty emptying your bladder or bowel, and reduced vaginal sensation.

According to the survey, which was carried out in in the last two months among over 600 women nationwide, more than 70% of women have experienced the accidental leaking of urine during everyday activities, such as walking, running, laughing, coughing and sneezing.

However, 65% admitted that they would not discuss this issue with a healthcare professional and 41% are unaware of any solutions to the problem.

The survey noted that women are more likely to discuss this issue with their friends rather than their partner. Women are also less likely to discuss it with family or at a pharmacy.

According to GP, Dr Ciara Kelly, women often think that pelvic floor weakness is just something they have to put up with, however there are solutions available.

"Women aged from 30 to 45 plus frequently visit my practice with signs and symptoms of pelvic floor weakness. It can have a huge impact on their lives with their family, with their partner and at work.

"There are non-invasive and non-prescriptive solutions which can restore your pelvic floor strength. They focus on restoring the ability to contract the pelvic floor muscles appropriately, in order to improve the function, strength and endurance of these muscles and to prevent leakage and incontinence," she explained.

The Being a Mum in 2015 survey was carried out during October and November by Neurotech Vital.