Pelvic floor dysfunction, which is characterized by an increased intensity of pelvic floor muscles, can be caused by a variety of conditions and diseases. Pelvic floor disorders can be caused by an injury or trauma to the pelvic area, as well as chronic conditions such as diabetes, pelvic inflammatory disease, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, pregnancy, hysterectomy, chronic constipation or diarrhea, lower back pain, and neurological conditions.
Additionally, pelvic floor dysfunction can result due to lifestyle-related causes like becoming overweight or obese, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, or using drugs.
In some cases, hormonal imbalances can cause pelvic floor disorders. Women may experience pelvic floor disorders due to changes in hormones that occur with menopause, for example. Other diseases and conditions that can cause pelvic floor dysfunction include pelvic floor spasms, congenital muscular dystrophy, pelvic radiation, stroke, and multiple sclerosis.
In some cases, pelvic floor disorders can be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms may be similar to other conditions. Consultation with a medical professional is the best way to determine an accurate diagnosis.
Recognizing the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction early can help with treatment and management of symptoms, and improve quality of life.
What are the most common pelvic floor disorders?
The most common pelvic floor disorders include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, fecal incontinence, pelvic floor muscle weakness, urinary urgency, and obstructed defecation. Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine, while pelvic organ prolapse is the descent of the bladder, rectum, or uterus below the limit of normal support.
Fecal incontinence is the involuntary passage of stool, and pelvic floor muscle weakness is the lack of control or ability to intentionally contract and control the pelvic floor muscles. Urinary urgency is the sudden, intense need to urinate, and obstructed defecation is difficulty in having a bowel movement, even when the urging is present.
Treatment for pelvic floor disorders depends on the type and severity of the disorder and can include pelvic floor muscle training, lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.
Can anxiety cause pelvic floor problems?
Yes, anxiety can cause pelvic floor problems. Anxiety often leads to increased abdominal pressure, which can put excessive strain on the pelvic floor muscles. Anxiety can also lead to a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles due to prolonged periods of stress.
This can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms, including incontinence, pain during sexual intercourse, limited mobility and/or pain in the pelvic area, difficulty controlling bowel and/or bladder function, and menstrual irregularities.
Pelvic floor physical therapy may be used to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve flexibility, as well as relieve the accompanying anxiety or stress. The therapist will evaluate each individual’s specific needs in order to customize treatment.
Strengthening and relaxation exercises may be recommended in order to restore strength and balance to the pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, lifestyle modification may be encouraged, such as avoiding heavy lifting, chronic coughing, tight clothing, and spending long periods of time sitting, all of which can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.
What can lead to pelvic floor weakness?
Pelvic floor weakness can be caused by many factors. One of the main causes is excessive or prolonged straining during activities such as lifting objects, strenuous exercise, or long periods of sitting or standing.
Other causes of pelvic floor weakness include aging, menopause, obesity, chronic coughing, childbirth, or chronic disease. Pelvic surgery, such as hysterectomy, can also lead to pelvic floor weakness.
In addition, pelvic floor muscle weakness can be caused by nerve or muscle damage, or by chronic neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease. Pelvic floor weakness can also be a result of poor posture, bad habits that weaken the pelvic floor muscles, or incorrect use of the pelvic floor muscles during activities.
In some cases, it can be caused by the weakening effects of certain medications.
What are the signs of a weak pelvic floor?
The main sign of a weak pelvic floor are repeated cases of urinary stress incontinence, which is leakage of urine during physically demanding activities like coughing, sneezing, jumping and running. Additional signs of a weak pelvic floor include fecal incontinence, which means involuntary bowel movements, persistent pain in the pelvic area, inability to control flatus (passing gas), decreased sensation during intercourse, and feelings of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area.
In women, a weakened pelvic floor might cause the uterus or bladder to drop lower than normal in the body, leading to bulging in the lower abdomen. Depending on the severity of the weakness, there may be visible bulging present even when standing.
In some cases, a weakened pelvic floor can cause sexual dysfunction since it affects the tension of the vaginal walls, leading to a decrease in sensation and pleasure with intercourse.
How long does it take to fix weak pelvic floor?
That depends on the individual and the severity of their weak pelvic floor. In some cases, it may take anywhere from 6-12 weeks to notice significant improvements with your pelvic floor health. A comprehensive program of pelvic floor strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can help improve pelvic floor function and strength in a relatively short amount of time.
In many cases, pelvic floor physical therapy and medical intervention may be necessary to help address larger issues that may lead to pelvic floor dysfunction. It is important to work with a physical therapist who specializes in women’s health and pelvic floor rehabilitation to create an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and goals and that incorporates both therapeutic exercise and lifestyle modifications.
Taking the necessary steps to ensure your pelvic floor and pelvic health are taken care of can result in long term, positive outcomes.
How do I know if my pelvic floor muscles are strong or weak?
If you are unsure about the strength of your pelvic floor muscles, there are a few signs that can provide clues. One of the most common signs is leaking when you sneeze, laugh, or jump. Also, if you have any kind of fecal or urinary incontinence, this can indicate that your pelvic floor muscles are weak.
Conversely, you may also feel like you are constantly tensing your pelvic floor muscles and carrying around stress in that area. This can also be an indication of weak pelvic floor muscles. If you experience any of these symptoms, it would likely benefit you to speak to your healthcare provider who can help you assess the strength of your pelvic floor muscles, as well as provide you with tips and resources to help strengthen them if necessary.
Consider talking to a pelvic floor physical therapist who can provide any additional guidance.
Can a weak pelvic floor cause digestive problems?
Yes, in some cases a weak pelvic floor can contribute to digestive problems. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis. They help to support the pelvic organs and help control bladder, bowel and sexual function.
When these muscles are weak, they can lead to a condition called pelvic floor dysfunction. This can lead to a variety of digestive issues, such as increased gas, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. A weak pelvic floor can also cause feelings of heaviness and pressure in the lower abdomen, which can be uncomfortable.
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through pelvic floor physical therapy may help to reduce symptoms of digestive problems related to a weak pelvic floor. Other lifestyle treatments, such as reducing stress, exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet, can also help to improve pelvic floor strength and reduce digestive symptoms.