AdventHealth Health Hub: Pelvic Health Treatments

Did you know that pelvic floor disorders affect nearly a quarter of all women in the United States? Incontinence, pelvic floor pressure and pain below the belly button are just a few examples of symptoms that can disrupt your life. It’s an uncomfortable topic for many women to talk about. But, it’s important to know that if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you are not alone.

WHERE TO START

If you are experiencing pelvic health issues, you should see a urogynecologist — an OB/GYN or urologist who has subspecialized in treating women who struggle with pelvic floor disorders, such as urinary and fecal incontinence, overactive bladder and pelvic organ prolapse.

WHAT SYMPTOMS SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR?

Experiencing urinary or bowel incontinence frequently, seeing or feeling a vaginal bulge, or feeling extreme pressure in the vaginal area are signs that you should seek care.

WHEN DO PELVIC DISORDERS TYPICALLY OCCUR?

The rate of all pelvic floor disorders increases with age, but these conditions can occur at any point in a woman’s lifetime. Aging and menopause can decrease the strength of the pelvic floor muscles. Obesity, chronic straining, pregnancy and childbirth also increase the risk of developing a pelvic floor disorder.

ARE PELVIC FLOOR ISSUES COMMON AFTER CHILDBIRTH?

Yes, pregnancy is a risk factor. Pregnancy and delivery put increased stress on the pelvic floor muscles and support system. While vaginal deliveries increase your chances further of developing a pelvic floor disorder, women who have C-section deliveries can also be at an increased risk for these disorders.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS?

Treatment options depend on the most bothersome symptom and can range from very conservative (lifestyle changes, home pelvic-floor exercises or physical therapy) to more interventional (minimally invasive surgery). Medications will often help women with bowel incontinence or overactive bladder. It is important to know that pelvic floor problems often worsen over time, especially after menopause.

INTEGRATED PELVIC HEALTH AT ADVENTHEALTH FOR WOMEN

AdventHealth for Women’s comprehensive Pelvic Health Program provides access to a wide range of pelvic health specialists, including urogynecologists, colorectal surgeons, urologists and physical therapists as well as a pelvic health care coordinator to provide a seamless experience. Our program treats women of all ages and offers several convenient locations throughout Central Florida.