The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles and connective tissue in your pelvic area that form a bowl-like network of support between the hip bones, pubic bone and tailbone. Contracting and relaxing these muscles is an important part of normal bowel and bladder function.
In women, pelvic floor disorders often arise as a result of pregnancy or delivery, though they can present for other reasons, such as nerve damage, chronic stress on the pelvic floor or prior pelvic surgery. For some, pelvic floor disorders occur as a result of aging or due to a genetic predisposition.
Nearly 1 in 4 women suffers from a pelvic floor disorder and, too often, they don’t seek treatment. It might be uncomfortable to talk about pelvic floor disorders, but there are many treatment options that can make you feel normal again. Regardless of the cause of your symptoms, a team of Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center specialists will work to ensure that treatment is complete and comprehensive.
If you’re a woman, there’s a 1 in 4 chance you’ll experience a pelvic floor disorder in your lifetime. Often, it’s difficult to discuss your condition or know when and where to seek treatment. At the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, our Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery experts are specially trained in treating pelvic floor conditions specific to women. Our team performs a comprehensive evaluation and tailors treatment options to relieve your symptoms.
Just because you’ve had children or are getting older doesn’t mean you have to suffer. Whether you’re struggling with urinary or bowel incontinence or are experiencing discomfort from pelvic organ prolapse, our team of specialists provides personalized, compassionate care and will help create a treatment plan that’s right for your unique concerns. Our goal is to provide the least invasive, most effective treatment possible.
As a division of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, we provide the latest surgical, nonsurgical and behavioral therapies. If surgery is necessary, we may be able to offer a variety of minimally invasive approaches such as a vaginal prolapse repair or robotic surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System. These contribute to a shorter hospital stay, easier recovery and minimal scarring.
We understand the impact a pelvic floor disorder can have on your daily life. That’s why our ultimate goal is to return the freedom and function you need to enjoy activities again without the worry of persistent symptoms.
Specialized care for pelvic floor disorders associated with pregnancy and childbirth
While there are many different causes of pelvic floor problems, one of the most common reasons for the weakening of pelvic muscles from pregnancy, particularly vaginal births. Pelvic floor disorders may also arise from previous surgeries or nerve damage, and are also more prevalent in people who are obese or have chronic strain on the pelvic floor such as from a chronic cough, heavy lifting, etc.
We regularly provide treatment for women experiencing:
The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center clinical team will perform a physical exam and get a thorough understanding of your health history. You may also be asked to keep a diary of your fluid intake and urinary habits.
Additional testing, such as a cystoscopy or an in-office bladder test might be performed to better understand an individual’s unique condition.
For many with pelvic floor dysfunction, there are several treatment options available. At Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, these options include:
Some pelvic floor exercises, including Kegel exercises, can easily be performed at home.
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