Pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD) are a collection of disorders that affect a woman’s pelvic floor. This is the group of muscles in the pelvic area that support the organs. Those organs include the bladder, rectum and uterus. When the pelvic organ muscles fail, it can cause discomfort, bathroom troubles or even serious medical conditions. As women get older, they become more and more likely to experience a PFD. Learn the signs of a PFD, and what you can do to keep your pelvic floor healthy.
Types of PFD
If you have a weakened pelvic floor, then you may experience a few different conditions. These include:
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse. This is the dropping of pelvic organs such as the bladder, rectum and uterus.
- Urinary Incontinence. Many women suffer from some form of urinary incontinence, whether they have trouble emptying their bladder or frequent urination.
- Accidental Bowel Leakage. When the pelvic muscles are damaged, it can become difficult to control bowel movements. It’s an embarrassing problem that affects millions of women worldwide.
What Causes PFD?
Pelvic floor dysfunctions occur due to torn or weakened connective tissues in the pelvic muscles. There are a number of factors that can cause this kind of damage to the pelvic floor. Most commonly, PFDs affect women who have given birth vaginally. Menopause is also known to weaken the pelvic muscles. Other risks factors for PFD include obesity, smoking, family history, heavy lifting, and pelvic injuries.
Symptoms of PFD
Since there are three different types of PFDs, there are many different symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms women suffer from include:
- Painful urination
- Trouble urinating
- Frequent urination
- Frequent bowel movements
- Constipation
- Lower back pain
- Pain in the genitals, rectum or pelvic region
- Painful intercourse
- Bowel or bladder leakage
Preventing and Treating PFDs
If you or someone you love is suffering from a pelvic floor dysfunction, come visit OB-GYN Women’s Centre today! Our compassionate team of medical professionals understands that this can be a sensitive issue for many women. That’s why we work to make sure every woman understands her options, and feels confident in her treatment. Call OB-GYN Women’s Centre today and find out which options work best for you!
