On the Blog: Signs You Might Have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (And What to Do About It)
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) can affect your daily life in ways you might not realise. From bladder issues to pelvic pain, many women live with these symptoms in silence. If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it might be time to look into pelvic floor dysfunction and find out how you can improve your health.
What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a range of problems with the muscles and ligaments that support the pelvic organs. This dysfunction can result in symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse. While PFD is common, it can have a significant impact on a your quality of life.
Common Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Urinary leakage: A sudden strong urge to urinate and leaking on the way, or leakage during sneezing, laughing, or exercising is one of the most common signs.
Pelvic pain: Chronic pelvic pain, especially during intercourse or physical activity, can indicate that the pelvic floor muscles are weak or too tight.
Pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area: This sensation may occur when you stand up, walk, or exercise and could be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse. Some women may even notice a bulge in the vagina, or back pain.
Constipation: Difficulty or pain while having bowel movements can be linked to pelvic floor issues.
Why Does Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Happen?
Pelvic floor dysfunction can develop for a variety of reasons:
Birth: Pregnancy and delivery place significant strain on the pelvic muscles and nerves, which can lead to dysfunction.
Aging: As we age, pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, and hormonal changes, such as menopause, can exacerbate the problem.
Lifestyle factors: Obesity, heavy lifting, chronic constipation, smoking, or lack of exercise can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.
What You Can Do About It
If you're experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, there are several treatment options:
Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic muscles can improve bladder control and alleviate pelvic pain. An assessment and tailored program is often needed for these to be effective.
Physiotherapy: A pelvic floor physiotherapist can assess your condition and guide you through exercises designed to release tight muscles or strengthen weak ones.
Behavioural changes: Modifying your fluid intake, reducing heavy lifting, increased exercise, improving your diet and treating constipation can all help manage symptoms.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is super common affecting at least 25% of women over their lifetime. However, the number may be higher because many women don't discuss their symptoms with a doctor due to embarrassment or shame related to these conditions, but it doesn’t have to control your life.
If you're noticing any signs, taking action early can improve your symptoms and help you regain control of your pelvic health. I see so many women who have put up with symptoms for years, and after an assessment and 3 months of treatment are successfully self-managing their conditions so it has very minimal impact on their lives. Seeking professional advice from a pelvic health expert is the first step toward recovery.
