If you’re dealing with bladder leaks, pelvic pain, constipation or discomfort during intimacy, you’re not alone – and you’re not imagining it. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common but often under-discussed condition that affects people of all ages and genders.
While these symptoms can feel isolating, the field of urogynecology specializes in diagnosing and treating these exact issues, helping patients transition from quiet discomfort to long term relief.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, make an appointment with your primary care provider to get a referral for a urogynecologist, who can discuss your treatment options with you. Early evaluation can make treatment more effective and help prevent symptoms from getting worse.
What is pelvic floor dysfunction?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments and connective tissues that support the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs. These muscles help control urination, bowel movements and sexual function.
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) occurs when those muscles lose their ability to work together – either because they’re too tight, too weak or unable to coordinate relaxation and contraction at the right time.
“A damaged pelvic floor cannot support those organs, and as the structure weakens, the normal function of those organs starts to deteriorate,” says Rebecca Rinko, DO, a urogynecologist in our Greenville market.
Who is affected by pelvic floor dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction does not discriminate. It impacts:
- Women and men
- People who have given birth and those who haven’t
- Younger adults, older adults and athletes
Despite how common it is, many people delay seeking care because symptoms can feel embarrassing or confusing. Pelvic floor dysfunction is treatable, especially when identified early.
“Pelvic floor issues are not just a normal part of aging, or something that should just be accepted because you’ve had children,” Dr. Rinko says.
Common signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction
The pelvic floor supports multiple systems. That means symptoms can manifest in various ways across the bladder, bowels and pelvic region.
Common signs include:
- Urinary issues: Leakage, sudden urgency or difficulty fully emptying the bladder
- Bowel changes: Chronic constipation, straining or accidental stool leakage
- Pelvic discomfort: Unexplained pain in the rectum, pelvis or lower back
- Intimacy issues: Pain during or after intercourse
- Pelvic pressure: A heavy sensation or feeling as though something is “dropping” in the pelvis
What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?
There isn’t one single cause. Pelvic floor dysfunction usually develops due to a combination of factors that affect muscle strength, coordination or nerve signaling.
Dr. Rinko says that one in four women will suffer from at least one pelvic floor dysfunction at some point during their life, with many experiencing multiple.
Common types of pelvic floor dysfunction include:
- Pelvic organ prolapse: Organs in the pelvic floor region, such as the bladder, uterus or bowel, bulge into the vagina as a result of weakened pelvic floor tissues and muscles. Symptoms are pelvic pressure, a feeling fullness or tissue at the vaginal opening.
- Urinary incontinence: Involuntary loss of bladder control, causing leakage that ranges from a few drops to complete loss of control.
- Fecal incontinence: The inability to control bowel movements that leads to accidental leakage of solid or liquid stool.
Common risk factors include:
- Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth
- Aging and menopause-related hormonal changes
- Chronic straining from constipation or chronic coughing
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, obesity and previous or current knee or hip issues
- Genetics
- Prior pelvic surgery like hysterectomies
- Trauma or injury to the pelvic area
Pelvic floor dysfunction can also be caused by lifestyle factors such as smoking and repetitive heavy lifting or high-impact exercise, Dr. Rinko adds.
Men can also develop pelvic floor dysfunction, often related to prostate conditions, pelvic surgery or chronic pelvic pain syndromes.
How pelvic floor dysfunction is diagnosed
Diagnosis starts with a detailed conversation about symptoms, medical history and daily habits. Your provider may perform a physical exam and, when appropriate, recommend additional testing to evaluate muscle coordination and strength.
Navigating pelvic health is often a multidisciplinary approach including primary care, gynecologists, urogynecologists, urologists, pelvic floor physical therapists and gastroenterologists. Importantly, diagnosis isn’t just about identifying what’s wrong – it’s about understanding how your pelvic floor is functioning so treatment can be tailored to your specific needs.
Pelvic floor dysfunction treatment options
Treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction is highly individualized. There is a continuum of care that ranges from conservative therapies to advanced surgical interventions.
Pelvic floor physical therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy is often the cornerstone of initial treatment. Specialized physical therapists help you regain muscle control through:
- Guided exercises
- Biofeedback
- Manual therapy
- Posture and breathing strategies
- Home exercise programs
Lifestyle and behavioral strategies
Simple everyday changes can reduce the strain on your pelvic floor.
- Bladder and bowel habits
- Proper toileting posture
- Dietary changes to support digestive health
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
Advanced medical and surgical options
When conservative measures are not enough to restore your quality of life, there are other medical interventions. This may include medications, office procedures, minimally invasive procedures or specialized reconstructive surgeries designed to restore the anatomical support.
Long-term care and prevention
Long-term management of pelvic floor dysfunction focuses on maintaining muscle function and preventing symptom flare-ups.
Prevention and long-term care strategies include:
- Continuing pelvic floor exercises as directed
- Avoiding chronic straining during bowel movements
- Managing coughing or conditions that increase abdominal pressure
- Using proper lifting techniques
- Staying physically active with pelvic-friendly exercise routines
Addressing symptoms early – even mild ones – can reduce the risk of progression and improve overall quality of life.
When to talk to your provider
If pelvic symptoms interfere with your daily life, exercise, sleep or relationships, it’s time to seek care. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a highly treatable medical condition.
“Knowing your risks is the first step toward prevention and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction,” Dr. Rinko says.
How we can help
If you are experiencing any pelvic floor symptoms, make an appointment with your primary care physician or gynecologist to request a referral to a urogynecologist. They will work with you help you regain comfort, confidence and control.
Learn about the women’s health services we offer at Bon Secours.
