Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: What You Need To Know

Pelvic floor dysfunction is not a common topic and is often misunderstood. This condition affects millions of people every year and can significantly hamper the quality of life. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), nearly one out of every four women experiences pelvic floor disorders, which may also affect men.

In this condition, the muscles and tissues that support pelvic organs like the bladder and uterus turn too weak or too tight. This ultimately results in severe complications, such as pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, or fecal incontinence. 

Read this article to learn about pelvic floor dysfunction, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment.

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Here are some of the most common signs of pelvic floor dysfunction.

• Difficulty urinating
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Urinary and fecal incontinence
• Fecal incontinence
• Constant pain in the pelvic area
• Pain during intercourse
• Uncontrolled muscle spasms
• Sense of insecurity or feeling of something coming out vaginally 

Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Usually, several factors can contribute to the development of pelvic food disorders. Some of the common causes include

• Women who had pregnancy with abnormal conduct of labour or difficult delivery are at a higher risk of developing PFD because, sometimes, the high strain of delivery can damage pelvic floor muscles.
• The age factor is another common cause, as aging results in the natural loss of tone of muscle and tissues over time.
• Previous surgical procedures in the pelvic area, such as hysterectomy, can also lead to pelvic floor disorders.
• The excess weight of a person suffering from obesity puts additional pressure on pelvic muscles and tissues, leading to PFD.
• Persistent constipation

Diagnosis and Treatment

Analyzing your medical history and certain imaging and pelvic floor muscle tests can help diagnose pelvic floor disorders. This condition can usually be treated. The treatments, however, depend on the severity of the condition. 

For the initial phases, pelvic floor therapy can easily help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, providing relief to the patient. 

In other cases, the pain could easily be managed with proper medication. In extreme cases, surgery might be deemed important to provide physical muscle support.

Takeaway

While pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition in people, there is a lack of awareness about it. Moreover, this condition can greatly affect the life of a patient if left untreated. If you notice any related symptoms, visit your healthcare provider immediately.