Patients diagnosed with pelvic floor dysfunction may require pelvic floor muscle treatment.
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when individuals cannot properly relax and coordinate the pelvic floor muscles to urinate or have a bowel movement. As a result, women may experience pain during sex, and men may struggle with erectile dysfunction.
The pelvic organs include the uterus, bladder, vagina, prostate, and rectum, supported by pelvic floor muscles that wrap around the pelvic bone and rectum. Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction can include:
- Difficulty having a bowel movement
- Constipation
- Incomplete bowel movements
- Lower back pain
- Urine or stool leakage
- Painful urination
- Frequent urination
- Persistent pain in the pelvic region, rectum, or genitals
Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Potential causes of this condition include:
- Aging
- Being overweight or obese
- Pelvic surgery
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Traumatic injury to the pelvic area
- Overuse of pelvic muscles, leading to poor coordination
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Women
Women with pelvic floor dysfunction may also have reproductive health issues affecting the uterus and vagina, and pelvic organ prolapse.
Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
During an appointment, the physician may inquire about:
- History of urinary tract infections
- Symptoms of vaginal pressure or bulge
- Prior diagnosis of interstitial cystitis or irritable bowel syndrome
- The patient’s ability to make bowel movements
The doctor may ask female patients if they’ve given birth and if they have pain during sex.
The doctor will perform a physical exam to assess pelvic floor muscle control and check for knots, spasms, and weaknesses. Some patients may need an vaginal exam.
Based on the exam results, additional tests may include:
- Anorectal manometry to muscle strength, measure pressure, and coordination in the anal sphincters
- Surface electrodes to test pelvic muscle control
- Defecating proctogram to observe bowel movement ability and identify causes of dysfunction
- Uroflow test to evaluate bladder emptying capability
Pelvic Floor Muscle Treatment Options
Non-surgical treatments for pelvic floor dysfunction may involve:
- Biofeedback: Using special sensors and video to monitor pelvic floor muscles during relaxation or clenching, with feedback from a physical therapist to improve muscle coordination
- Pelvic floor physical therapy: Exercises guided by a physical therapist to strengthen or stretch muscles in the pelvis, lower back, and pelvic floor
- Medication: Stool softeners to ensure regular bowel movements
- Relaxation techniques: Medication, acupuncture, warm baths, yoga, and light exercise to aid relaxation
Injections for High-Tone Pelvic Floor Muscles
For hypertonic pelvic floor, trigger point injections such as Botox and corticosteroids can alleviate symptoms.
Choose UCI Pelvic Health Center
If you experience pelvic floor dysfunction, the UCI Pelvic Health Center is here to help. Our expert team provides comprehensive care to diagnose and treat pelvic floor issues, including difficulty with bowel movements, urinary incontinence, and pelvic pain. We offer advanced non-surgical treatments like biofeedback, pelvic floor physical therapy, and relaxation techniques. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive the best care tailored to your specific needs.