The pelvic floor is a term used to describe a group of muscles and tissue that work together to support the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. Pelvic floor muscles support these organs by wrapping around the pelvic bone to help provide stability. Pelvic floor disorders occur when the “sling” or “hammock” that supports the organs becomes weak or damaged.
Disorders of the pelvic floor are extremely common. One study found that almost one-quarter of women will experience this condition.
Causes of pelvic floor disorders
Pelvic floor disorders occur for a number of reasons such as:
- Following childbirth – women may develop pelvic floor disorders in the months or years after childbirth.
- Aging -as women age, pelvic organ prolapse and other pelvic disorders become more common.
- Other contributing factors include menopause, prior surgery, pelvic radiation and obesity
Pelvic floor disorders
There are a variety of conditions that affect the pelvic floor. Common types of pelvic floor disorders are
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Urinary incontinence
- Anal incontinence
Symptoms of a pelvic floor disorder
Symptoms of a pelvic floor disorder depend on the specific reason behind it.
- Vaginal or rectal prolapse – symptoms experienced include a heavy feeling in the pelvis or a bulge in the vagina or rectum
- Urinary incontinence -symptoms experienced include an urgent need to urinate, painful urination or incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Anal incontinence – symptoms experienced include constipation
- Trouble releasing a bowel movement
- Urine or stool that leaks
- Painful sex
If you experience one or more of these symptoms make an appointment to see your doctor as a matter of importance.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will take a full history and carry out a physical examination to see if they can narrow down possible causes of your symptoms. In some cases, a blood test, ultrasound scan or other diagnostic test may be required. Tests may be used to rule out other possible diagnoses.
Management
The management of your pelvic floor disorder will depend on your specific diagnosis. General management revolves around how advanced your pelvic floor disorder has become. Options may include:
- Biofeedback -this is the most common treatment of pelvic floor disorders. It is done with the help of a physical therapist. This can help you learn how to relax and coordinate the movement of your pelvic floor muscles
- Medicines ie. low doses of muscle relaxants like diazepam or stool softeners that help to keep your bowel movements soft and regular
- Lifestyle changes -ie. specific exercises, stop smoking
- Relaxation techniques -your provider might recommend you try relaxation techniques such as meditation, warm baths, yoga or acupuncture.
- Votiva – a non surgical 20 min in- office treatment that utilizes radio frequency to enhance vaginal muscle tone, strength, and control and reduce stress urinary incontinence.
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