Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Introduction

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition where the person will be unable to relax and coordinate the pelvic floor muscles to poop. The common symptoms are constipation, straining to poop, frequent need to poop, or urine or stool leakage. This condition can be treated through medications, biofeedback, and pelvic floor physical therapy. Read the article to know more.

What Is Meant by Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a very common condition where the person is unable to coordinate and relax the muscles of the pelvic floor while urinating or during poop. The pelvic floor muscles form a foundation for the bladder, uterus, prostate, and rectum. These muscles act as a support system that keeps everything in position. When a person normally tends to pee, the body tightens and relaxes the pelvic floor muscles. This is the usual muscle action. In the case of pelvic floor dysfunction, the body tightens these muscles instead of relaxing them. The tension created is because

• Having trouble releasing a bowel movement.

• Incomplete bowel movement.

• Presence of pee or poop leakage.

When this condition affects females, they may feel pain during intercourse, while it affects males. They find it difficult to maintain an erection.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Some common symptoms associated with this condition are

• Regular visits to the bathroom.

• One needs to start and stop frequently when the person is trying to pee.

• Pelvic pain.

• Pressure in the pelvic region.

• Presence of bulge in the lower pelvic area.

• Incomplete urination.

• Involuntary leakage of stools.

• In females, pain during intercourse is seen.

• Dysfunction of bowel movements.

• Constipation.

• Lower back pain.

• Continuous pain in the pelvic region and the genitals with or without bowel movements.

What Are the Causative Factors of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Some causative factors are

• Some form of traumatic injury.

• There is too much straining of the pelvic muscle.

• Any prior form of pelvic surgery.

• Pregnancy and childbirth are usually difficult deliveries.

• Muscles naturally start to weaken as a person ages.

• Stress and anxiety.

• Disorders related to connective tissue.

• Multiple deliveries.

• Large babies.

How Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Condition Diagnosed?

Usually, the doctor initiates the diagnosis by enquiring about the signs and symptoms. Even the medical history will be reviewed. They may ask some questions, such as

• Whether the person stains during poop.

• Whether the person can empty the bladder.

• Does the person feel empty post-bowel movements?

• How often does the person poop or pee?

Through physical examination, the doctor will see how well the person can control the pelvic floor muscle movements. The doctor may suggest some diagnostic tests, such as

• Anorectal Manometry: This test is done to see how well the anal sphincters work as well it helps to assess the pressure present in the muscle contraction. At the same time, electromyography is performed to see the coordination of pelvic floor muscles.

• Defecating Proctogram: The doctor will suggest this test to see how well the person can perform and empty the bowel movements. This test is also done to see for any anatomical abnormalities of the pelvic floor.

• Urodynamics: This test is recommended if the person has any issues with peeing. This test shows how well a person can empty the bladder. A weaker pee flow or stops in between peeing can be a problem for the pelvic floor.

How Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Managed?

Some treatment methods are

• Dietary Alterations: Bowel movements can be managed with fiber food intake, more liquids, and certain medications that can help.

• Laxatives: After a consultation with the doctor, laxatives can be taken, which helps to pass the stools in case of pelvic floor dysfunction.

• Pain Relief: Some people require pain relief injections or anti-inflammatory medications to help manage symptoms.

• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Physical therapists will help the person identify which muscles are very tense, and they will teach exercises that enhance the coordination of the muscles.

• Biofeedback: This is the common treatment method for pelvic floor dysfunction. This is done along with physical therapy. During visits, the physical therapist will monitor the pelvic floor muscles using sensors and videos. By seeing this, they will guide the improvement of the coordination of the muscles.

• Trigger Point Injection: If physical therapy or biofeedback does not show any improvement, they recommend trigger point injection. In this procedure, the doctor will use numbing medication to relax the muscle, which is overly tense and causes pain.

• Prolapse: Prolapse can result in pelvic floor dysfunction. This condition occurs when the rectum and vagina fall out of place as the pelvic floor muscles are not properly supporting them. Kegel exercise can help with this condition, but in most cases, surgery is recommended.

Pelvic floor exercises must be performed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles regardless of age or gender. These exercises can be performed even if one has or has not given birth. Properly following these exercises before and during pregnancy can help to prevent pelvic floor dysfunction in later life.

What Are the Complications of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Some complications are

• Loss of bladder control is when people cannot control their bladder movements.

• Anal inconsistency is where the person will be unable to control the release of wind and the feces.

• This condition can also cause weak vaginal sensation, which can impact sexual life.

• If the muscles are weak and overactive, then they can result in painful sexual activity and loss of bladder control.

• In some cases, the organs which are supported by the pelvic floor muscles, such as the bladder or the uterus, can slip into the vagina due to lack of support.

• A bulge and deep vaginal tenderness are some common complications.

What Are the Rehabilitation Methods to Manage the Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

The strength of the pelvic floor muscles can be improved by

• Reducing body fat.

• Preventing constipation through intake of more fiber-rich food, fruits, and liquids in the regular diet.

• Consult a doctor for chronic cough.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition where the person cannot control and coordinate the muscles during urination or passing stools. This condition can result in constipation, pain in the pelvic region, uncontrolled bowel movements, etc. This can be managed through medication, physical therapy, and proper diet.