Leaking urine, constipation, frequent visits to the bathroom, ongoing pain with seemingly no cause… does this sound familiar to you? If so, you might be struggling with pelvic floor dysfunction. Here’s what the best OB in College Park, MD wants you to know about this women’s health concern, plus how to treat it!
What Exactly Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to the impaired functioning of the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs. It involves weakened or overactive pelvic floor muscles. This leads to various symptoms and difficulties in controlling the bladder, bowel, and/or sexual function. The symptoms can cause discomfort, and pain, and disrupt daily activities.
What Do the Pelvic Organs Include?
The pelvic organs in women consist of the bladder, uterus, rectum, and vagina. These organs are supported by the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles act as a hammock-like structure to maintain the proper position of the organs. Additionally, the integrity and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles are essential for the optimal functioning of these organs.
What Are the Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction can be the result of one or multiple causes including:
- Chronic constipation
- Repetitive heavy lifting
- Obesity
- Hormonal changes
- Pelvic surgery
- Aging
- Certain medical conditions such as neurological disorders
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as high-impact exercises, chronic coughing, or straining during bowel movements can also weaken or strain the pelvic floor muscles.
Is Pregnancy a Culprit?
Not only are pregnancy and childbirth causes of pelvic floor dysfunction, but they’re also actually two of the main reasons why you may be experiencing this uncomfortable condition.
During pregnancy, the growing fetus and hormonal changes place increased pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. Vaginal childbirth, especially if it involves prolonged pushing or the use of forceps or vacuum extraction, can further stretch and weaken these muscles.
What Are Common Symptoms?
Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest differently in individuals, and symptoms may vary. It is best to speak with the best OB in College Park, MD who has experience with this condition for an accurate diagnosis.
Common indications include urinary incontinence (leakage of urine), frequent urination, urgency or difficulty with urination, fecal incontinence (loss of bowel control), constipation, pain or discomfort in the pelvic region, pain during sexual intercourse, and/or a feeling of heaviness or bulging in the pelvic area.
These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life and require medical attention. You may only experience one or two signs of dysfunction, or you can suffer from many.
How Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider specializing in this field. This typically includes a detailed medical history review and physical examination, and it may also involve additional tests such as urodynamic studies, pelvic ultrasound, or electromyography (EMG).
Treatment options for pelvic floor dysfunction may include pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises), biofeedback therapy, lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, medications, or in some cases, surgical interventions like pelvic floor repair or mesh procedures.
The treatment approach is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and aims to improve muscle strength, restore proper function, alleviate symptoms, and enhance overall pelvic health and well-being.
For Top Pelvic Floor Treatments and the Best OB in College Park, MD, or Nearby, Choose Women’s HealthCare Specialist!
Dr. Navita Modi is here to shed light on your health concerns, provide accurate and fast answers, and offer the latest and greatest services to help you improve your physical and mental health! Contact us at 301-812-3400 to book an appointment today, and be on the road to better overall health soon! You don’t have to suffer in silence any longer.
