The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles help control bladder and bowel function and play a key role in sexual health and core stability.
What is Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction?
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction (PFMD) occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are too weak, too tight, or do not work in coordination. This can affect both men and women, but is more common in women, especially after childbirth, surgery, or during menopause.
Types of Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction
- Pelvic Floor Weakness:
- Can lead to urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence, or pelvic organ prolapse (where organs drop down into the vagina).
- Pelvic Floor Overactivity (Tightness):
- Muscles may not relax properly, leading to pelvic pain, pain during sex, difficulty urinating, or constipation.
- Lack of Coordination:
- Muscles don’t work together properly, causing issues like straining during bowel movements or incomplete bladder emptying.
Common Symptoms
- Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or exercising
- Urgency or frequency in urination
- Constipation or straining to empty bowels
- Pelvic or lower back pain
- Heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area
- Pain during sexual intercourse
Causes and Risk Factors
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Aging and menopause
- Chronic constipation or heavy lifting
- Pelvic surgery
- Obesity
- High-impact exercise
- Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, stroke)
Diagnosis:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Physical (internal) examination
Treatment Options
- Most cases can be improved or resolved with appropriate treatment, but this requires an individualised approached to pelvic floor reconditioning based on your age, your lifestyle, and the specific symptoms you have. It may include:
- Pelvic Floor Exercises to strengthen and improve control of the pelvic muscles
- Specialist pelvic floor physiotherapists to guide treatment for weakness or overactivity
- Biofeedback or Electrical Stimulation: Help retrain the muscles
- Lifestyle Changes: Managing weight, diet, fluid intake, and bowel habits
- Medications or Surgery: In more severe or complex cases
Self-Care and Prevention Tips
- Avoid straining when using the toilet
- Manage constipation with diet and hydration
- Use correct lifting techniques
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
Support and Further Information
Our women’s health physiotherapists, women’s health GPs, and specialist gynaecologist, are available to discuss your symptoms and identify any issues that exist. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life.
