Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic Floor Disorders: The pelvic floor muscles do more than just hold your pelvic organs in place—they also allow you to control your bowel and bladder movements. When these muscles become weak or damaged, it may result in a condition called pelvic floor dysfunction. Pregnancy and childbirth are the most common risk factors for developing pelvic floor dysfunction. Other possible causes for this condition include traumatic injuries or accidents to the pelvic area, irritable bowel syndrome, habitual heavy lifting, nerve disorder in the pelvic region, and genetic predisposition.

You may be suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• The inability to complete a bowel movement

• Constipation or frequent straining pain during bowel movements

• Frequent urination, but with the inability to urinate smoothly, stopping and starting many

• times before your bladder is emptied

• Pain during urination

• Persistent lower back pain

• Vaginal pain during sexual intercourse