Pelvic Floor Muscles Dysfunction: Pelvic Floor Symptoms & Treatment

Overview

Pelvic floor dysfunction is the inability to correctly control or coordinate the muscles of the pelvic floor. The Pelvic Floor Program at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Digestive Disease and Integrated Surgical Institute specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of people affected by pelvic floor disorders.

The caregivers in the Pelvic Floor Program work as a multidisciplinary team that includes the specialties: Colorectal Surgery, Gastroenterology, Urology, Physical Therapy, Radiology, and Nursing.

What We Treat

The Pelvic Floor Program can help people experiencing the following symptoms:

The urge to have several bowel movements during a short period of time
The feeling that you cannot complete a bowel movement
Constipation or difficulty emptying your bowels
Leakage of stool/urine with or without your awareness
The urge to frequently urinate; or painful urination
Lower back pain
Ongoing pain in your pelvic region, genitals, or rectum with or without a bowel movement.
Pain during intercourse (experienced by women)
Pelvic organ prolapse

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis of Pelvic Floor Disorders

At Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Pelvic Floor Program, each patient is assessed through a medical history, physical examination and additional tests to further conclude the cause and type of pelvic floor disorder.

Treatment of Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic floor dysfunction can often be successfully treated and improve the patient’s quality of life. Treatments include:

Lifestyle modification
Bowel regimen to improve bowel function
Biofeedback: This noninvasive procedure is a common treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction, done with the help of a physical therapist. Using special sensors and monitors, the patient attempts to relax and contract pelvic floor muscles. The therapist then provides feedback and works with the patient on improving his or her muscle coordination.
Relaxation or Exercises: Your physician or physical therapist may recommend relaxation techniques such as meditation, warm baths, yoga and exercises.
Medication: In some cases, your physician may prescribe a low-dose muscle relaxant to deal with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Surgery: In special cases, surgery might be the best option to repair and build back pelvic floor support. Occasionally, your surgeon may decide to inject Botox to relax the pelvic floor muscle.