Pelvic Floor Health

Pelvic floor health is a critical part of your overall health and wellness. As we age or have children, our pelvic floor muscles can weaken, leading to issues like incontinence, activity limitations, and discomfort. It may feel like you are dealing with these issues alone, but according to research, at least 32% of women will experience a pelvic floor disorder (PFD) in their lifetime. 

We're here to help. Our knowledgeable providers can address pelvic floor issues and help you find a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. 

The best part? With over 90 practices across Connecticut, we are conveniently located and accessible. Make an appointment today, and let us support you on your pelvic floor health journey.

The pelvic floor is a set of muscles and connective tissue that supports the pelvic organs, including the bladder and bowel. These muscles are crucial in urinary control, continence, and sexual function. Over time, due to age, childbirth, or strenuous physical exercise, they can get injured, weaken or even fail, leading to Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFD). Some common PFDs include:

• Bladder problems: Issues like incontinence, nocturia (frequent nighttime urination), overactive bladder, or urinary leakage (including when laughing or coughing). 
• Pelvic organ prolapse: This occurs when the pelvic floor muscles can no longer support one or more pelvic organs, causing them to drop or press into the vagina.
• Bowel control problems: "Fecal incontinence" occurs when liquid or solid stool leaks from the rectum.

Pelvic floor issues like incontinence and overactive bladder can also affect your sex life, but there’s no need to be ashamed or embarrassed—you’re not alone in dealing with these issues. Our experienced pelvic floor specialists can help you take control and regain your confidence with personalized care.

As pelvic floor muscles weaken, you may notice the following signs and symptoms:

• Frequent and sometimes urgent bathroom visits that may result in leakages
• Painful urination
• Difficulty while urinating, such as frequently starting and stopping 
• Regular constipation or having to change positions to eliminate stool
• Leaking urine or stool
• Unexplained lower back pain

Additionally, chronic pain in your pelvic, genitals or rectum can be a sign of PFD. If you have any of the above signs or symptoms, contact your Women’s Health Connecticut provider.

There are several treatment options for PFD. Once your provider diagnoses you, they will work with you on a plan to manage your symptoms and treat the root cause of the problem.

Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy is an excellent option if you're experiencing incontinence, difficulty emptying your bladder, frequent or urgent feelings to use the restroom, or a sense of pressure in your pelvis. Women entering perimenopause or menopause or who have had multiple children are more likely to have pelvic floor dysfunction.

Biofeedback

During physical therapy, your therapist may use sensors or other imaging techniques to monitor your pelvic floor muscles. This way, they can track your improvement and condition and better guide you through the exercises.

Medication

Daily stool softeners can help keep your bowel movements soft and regular. Some of these medications are available over the counter (OTC). However, you should discuss any new medications with your provider before starting them.

At Women’s Health Connecticut, we provide holistic care that covers all of your unique health needs. Our goal is to help you manage or alleviate health concerns so you can live and move more comfortably.