12/02/2023
Pelvic floor dysfunction
What is pelvic floor dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a group of disorders that occur when the muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor are weak, tight, or have poor coordination. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including feeling a va**nal bulge, wide va**nal introitus, difficulty with sexual in*******se, urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and difficulty with bowel movements.
What are the warning signs?
Warning signs of pelvic floor dysfunction include urinary incontinence, pelvic dragging discomfort, and difficulty with bowel movements. Other symptoms may include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area, or a sensation of not being able to completely empty the bladder or bowel.
How is pelvic floor dysfunction managed?
The options of pelvic floor dysfunction management include lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, medication, va**nal pessaries and surgery. Lifestyle changes may include weight loss, dietary changes, and avoiding triggers such as caffeine and alcohol. Physiotherapy can help to improve muscle strength and coordination, and medication can be used to manage symptoms such as urinary urge incontinence. Some cases are better treated with va**nal pessaries and for some surgical repair would be the option of choice.
Is surgery required? If so, in what cases?
Surgery is not always required for the management of pelvic floor dysfunction, but it may be considered in certain cases. For example, surgery may be recommended for patients who have not responded to other forms of treatment, or for those with significant structural abnormality of the pelvic floor.
What might happen if pelvic floor dysfunction is left untreated?
If pelvic floor dysfunction is getting worse and left untreated, it can lead to chronic pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, and difficulty with bowel movements. In some cases, it can also lead to feelings of embarrassment. It can also impact on sexual function and the quality of life.