Urogynecology and Pelvic Floor Disorder
Experts in Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The pelvic floor in women is a complex system of muscles, ligaments, connective tissues and nerves that form a supportive "hammock" for the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. This intricate network ensures proper function of these vital pelvic organs and plays a crucial role in controlling bladder and bowel movements.
When this support weakens or sustains damage, it leads to pelvic floor disorders. The specific symptoms vary depending on the type of disorder and which muscles or nerves are affected. While these disorders become more common with age, they should not be considered a normal or acceptable part of aging, as they can significantly impact a woman's well-being and overall quality of life. Despite hesitance to discuss this issue, advancements in treatments offer potential benefits for your health, well-being and peace of mind.
Types of Pelvic Floor Disorders
Urinary incontinence, characterized by a lack of bladder control, stands as the most common pelvic floor disorder. It can arise from various conditions, including weakened muscles controlling the bladder valve. Frequent urination and sensations of bladder pressure or incomplete emptying are common symptoms.
Fecal incontinence involves a loss of bowel control, leading to involuntary bowel movements. It is the second most common pelvic floor disorder, affecting both men and women of all ages, although it is more commonly seen in older adults. However, it is not a normal condition at any age and can be effectively treated, resulting in a substantial improvement in quality of life.
Pelvic organ prolapse, ranking as the third most common pelvic floor disorder, occurs when the pelvic muscles and supporting tissues weaken, causing the pelvic organs to shift out of position. This can result in the uterus, bladder or bowel "falling" onto the vagina, creating a bulge in the vaginal canal. While these conditions typically do not pose serious health risks, they can cause significant discomfort with symptoms such as a sensation of heaviness, a feeling of something protruding from the vagina, pulling or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis, pain during intercourse, and frequent urinary infections due to reduced ability to empty the bladder.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Disorders
These disorders stem from trauma to the muscles and nerves of the pelvic floor. Natural childbirth can be a major cause of pelvic floor disorders, and so is pregnancy itself. Pelvic surgery or radiation treatments also can lead to these disorders, as these procedures have the potential to damage nerves and other tissues in the pelvic floor. Being overweight or obese increases the risk, as do aging and genetic factors. In some cases, the precise origin of the disorder remains unknown.
Treatment of Pelvic Floor Disorders
Orlando Health provides comprehensive care, covering a wide range of diagnostic tests and treatment methods. This includes assessments, biofeedback, electrostimulation, specialized physical therapy, prescription medications and minimally invasive surgical interventions. When surgical intervention is necessary, most gynecological conditions now can be treated much more effectively through minimally invasive procedures, reducing complications, and allowing for a faster recovery and quicker return to normal daily life.
