Pelvic floor dysfunction: what you need to know

What is pelvic floor dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common problem not commonly discussed and is often thought of as just a normal sign of aging or a normal part of life following pregnancy. Those who may experience these symptoms have a keen awareness of the location of the bathrooms in our community.

Statistically, 1 in 3 women (1 in 2 over the age of 55) experience incontinence (urinary and bowel), pelvic pain and painful intercourse, to name a few symptoms collectively known as pelvic floor dysfunction. Men also less frequently have pelvic floor dysfunction but do not discuss the issue and also generally believe it is normal.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a sling of three muscular layers attaching from the front of the pelvis or pubic symphysis to the tailbone or coccyx. This muscular sling creates the floor of the pelvic cavity and supports the bladder, uterus, prostate and the rectum. The function of the pelvic floor is to support these structures and most importantly control the bladder and rectum by contracting and relaxing.

What are the signs?

The signs of pelvic floor dysfunction relate to changes in this important sling of muscles as well as the ligaments and connective tissue of the pelvic cavity. Common signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction are frequent or urgent urination, urinary leakage, constipation, pain during intercourse and pelvic, hip and/or lower back pain. These signs and symptoms may be postpartum, post-surgical or, in some cases, for no apparent reason.

What can physical therapy do to help?

Treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction is most effective when
multidisciplinary.  Physical therapists are well positioned in the health care team to treat these issues conservatively.

As these symptoms relate to muscle function, exercise should be a cornerstone of any treatment program. Physical therapists, often with specialization in this area of the body, offer strengthening exercises, postural correction and education regarding the correction of any contributing factors.