What You Need to Know about Pelvic Floor Disorders

In their life, women will experience a number of changes including menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and even weight fluctuations. When these changes occur together with aging, the woman body may be affected. One area for concern is the pelvic floor disorders. Normally, the reproductive organs, bladder, and bowel are held in position by the pelvic floor. Over time, the pelvic floor may weaken which may lead to a host of other problems.

A group of muscles and ligaments usually make up the pelvic floor. Once the pelvic floor muscles are weakened, some problems begin to develop such as urinary incontinence, difficulty in bowel movement, bleeding, and pain. A professional would, however, assist in treating weakened pelvic floor. Specialists who treat pelvic floor disorders are known as urogynecologist. They are specialist in the field of female pelvic medicine or urogynecology.

Normally, urogynecologists go through the standard training of OBGYN but specialize in the treatment of conditions that affect the female pelvic muscles, organs, and connective tissue. Urogynecologists are, therefore, more qualified to handle weak pelvic floor muscles. A common problem is the inability to control the muscles of your pelvic floor also known as pelvic floor dysfunction.

Pelvic floor muscles relax and contract making it possible for urination, bowel movement, and sexual intercourse in women. When you suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction, the muscles will contract instead of relaxing. This results in difficulty with bowel movement. When the condition is not treated, other problems such as colon damage, discomfort, and infection may occur.

In case the symptom don’t go away and become troublesome such that you cannot engage in some activities, finding a specialist like Dr. Lotze would help. When the bladder drops you may experience incontinence or more urge to visit the bathroom. There are also other symptoms such as loose control due to the shift of the bowel. You may also have rectum or vagina bulges.

In an emergency situation, severe bleeding could also occur. However, pelvic floor disorders can be treated. A professional urogynecologist will recommend a treatment plan based on your situation. Mild pelvic floor disorders are treated using nonsurgical treatments. One such nonsurgical treatment is the Kegel exercises that are intended to strengthen the pelvic floor. When done regularly and correctly, they can improve prolapse symptoms. Other nonsurgical treatment options include injections that are used for bladder control and medications. Medications are often given for some bladder control and prevent frequent bowel movement. Doctors can also prescribe the use of devices.

Your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure when other treatment options do not work for you. The surgery may be used for prolapse to restore pelvic floor support.
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