The muscles, connective tissues, and ligaments that support a woman’s internal organs such as the bladder, uterus, bowel and rectum are collectively termed as ‘pelvic floor. Issues that affect the pelvic floor are called pelvic floor disorders. The pelvic floor prevents these organs from falling down and helps in their proper functioning. The muscles of the pelvic floor are controlled by the nerves. Weakness of the pelvic floor muscles can be caused due to any injury or medical condition that affect these nerves. Some of the conditions that may cause weakening of the pelvic floor muscles may include:
- Stroke
- Back Surgery
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Childbirth trauma
- Spinal Stenosis etc.
Pelvic floor disorders are caused by a tear or weakness of the pelvic muscles. Pelvic floor disorders are classified into five:
- Pelvic Pain
- Bladder Disorders
- Female Sexual Dysfunction
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Bowel Dysfunction
Some of the most common types of pelvic floor disorders are:
- Rectocele
- Enterocele
- Cystocele
- Cystourethrocele
- Uterine Prolapse
- Vaginal Prolapse
Pelvic floor disorders are usually diagnosed by examining the pelvic area. Other diagnostic procedures and treatments may vary according to the conditions. The most common treatments are:
- Pessaries
- Pelvic floor Exercises and
- Surgery