The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that are found in the pelvic area. They are responsible for supporting the organs in the pelvis such as the bladder, prostate (men), uterus (women). By contracting and relaxing these important muscles, you can control your bladder and bowel movements effectively. Our Alpharetta, GA OBGYNs, Dr. Dori Kasparek and Dr. Supriya Rao, can offer helpful exercises to their patients.
About Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
When you cannot control the muscles in your pelvic floor, it is known as pelvic floor dysfunction. Individuals with this condition contract muscles rather than relax them. Because of this motion, they cannot have a bowel movement or have incomplete ones. Causes of pelvic floor dysfunction are unknown. Complications from vaginal childbirth or traumatic injuries to the pelvic area due to an accident often times can contribute to this condition.
Some symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction include:
- Feeling that you cannot complete a bowel movement
- Feeling that you need to take several movements in a short period of time
- Constipation or straining
- Frequent need to urinate
- Painful urination
- Unexplained back pain
- Ongoing pain in the genitals, pelvic region or rectum
- Pain during intercourse
Several of these symptoms suggest pelvic floor dysfunction, but some may indicate other issues that an Alpharetta OBGYN can determine. She will begin an exam asking about symptoms and taking a medical history. She may ask about your history of urinary tract infections, if you have pain during sex or if you have a history of interstitial cystitis. A physical examination follows to evaluate the ability to control the muscles. Additional tests can be administered depending on the severity of the case.
Treatment options include pelvic floor therapy, biofeedback, low-dose muscle relaxants and in more severe cases, surgery. Pelvic floor dysfunction is treatable through the use of many different treatment methods. Seeing an Alpharetta, GA OBGYN is the first step toward treating your symptoms. To schedule an appointment, call 770-622-9810 today.