What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Definition and Overview

• Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the bladder, rectum, and sexual organs weaken or become tight, causing pain and affecting bladder and bowel function.

• The pelvic floor is made up of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that surround the pelvic bone, supporting the organs in the pelvis.

• Pelvic floor dysfunction can cause symptoms such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, bowel movement difficulties, and pain.

Who is at Risk of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Factors Contributing to Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

• One-third of adult women experience some form of pelvic floor dysfunction.

• Primary causes include pregnancy, obesity, and menopause.

• Some women are genetically predisposed to developing pelvic floor dysfunction.

• Weak pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor weakness, and weakened pelvic floor can increase the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Underlying Conditions and Factors

• Pelvic floor dysfunction can be genetic, with some people having weaker muscles and connective tissue.

• It can also be caused by pregnancy, aging, and being overweight.

• Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease can also contribute to pelvic floor issues.

• Other factors that can cause pelvic floor dysfunction include connective tissue disorders and previous surgeries.

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Common Signs and Indicators

• Symptoms include urinary incontinence, constipation, pain during intercourse, and pain in the lower back, pelvic region, genitals, or rectum.

• Pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms may also include painful bowel movements, difficulty urinating or passing stool, pelvic pain, or pain during sexual intercourse.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

• Diagnosis begins with a full medical history and physical exam.

• Doctors evaluate the function of the pelvic floor muscles and assess ability to contract and relax.

• Pelvic floor contractions can be measured internally with a perineometer or externally with electrodes.

Non-Invasive Therapies

• Treatment combines different methods to relax the pelvic floor muscles and avoid overtaxing them.

• Popular non-invasive treatments include manual therapy, biofeedback, and electrical stimulation.

• Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and improve symptoms.

Minimally Invasive Interventions

• Ultrasound can be used therapeutically to produce deep warmth in the pelvic muscles and reduce muscle spasms.

• Transvaginal trigger-point injections can provide significant relief of symptoms.

• Pudendal nerve blocks can decrease nerve irritation and improve pain.

Pelvic Floor Muscles and Dysfunction

The Role of Pelvic Muscles in Dysfunction

• The pelvic floor muscles are the foundation of the pelvis, supporting organs like the bladder, uterus, prostate, and rectum.

• Normally, the body tightens and relaxes these muscles for proper bodily functions, like urination and bowel movement.

• Pelvic floor dysfunction causes tension in these muscles, leading to issues like pain, difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement, and potentially affecting sexual function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Myths and Misconceptions

• Pelvic floor muscle exercises are not effective in treating pelvic floor disorders.

• Pelvic floor muscle exercises are only for women.

• Pelvic floor muscle exercises are not necessary for people without symptoms.

• Pelvic floor muscle exercises are only for young people.

Next Steps

Seeking Help and Support

• Pelvic floor disorders are common medical problems that can be treated successfully.

• If you have a pelvic health issue, don’t hesitate to learn more about your treatment options.