PELVIC FLOOR ISSUES

The pelvic floor commonly refers to a group of muscles and tissues that hold a woman’s internal organs in place and provide crucial support to the uterus, bladder and bowel. If the pelvic floor muscles are abnormally tight or weak, a woman can feel pain or discomfort while also experiencing a variety of medical issues.

SYMPTOMS

Pelvic floor issues can contribute to pelvic organ prolapse, as a failure of the pelvic floor can lead to prolapsed organs. As such, the symptoms of pelvic floor problems can be similar to those of a prolapsed organ. Based on the specific set of symptoms present and the results of diagnostic testing, our medical specialists are able to determine which condition is present.

Most symptoms relate to the inability to control the bladder or rectum and include but are not limited to, constipation, difficulty beginning to urinate or an inability to empty the bladder completely, urinary incontinence, feeling the urge to urinate frequently and bowel gas or leakage. Pelvic pain and perianal pain can also be symptoms of pelvic floor issues, particularly in postpartum women.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

Risk factors for pelvic floor issues include obesity, menopause, pregnancy and childbirth. Hereditary deficiencies in collagen and other inherited genes can make some women more likely to develop pelvic floor conditions. Smoking and heavy lifting can also contribute to the development of pelvic floor issues.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Depending on how significantly the pelvic floor is impaired, treatment options can include special exercises to bolster weakened muscles, certain medications, or minimally invasive surgical procedures. At MCSO, our highly trained urologists carefully evaluate each patient’s specific condition and discuss the most effective treatment options that will help you return to a more confident, carefree lifestyle.