Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Pelvic floor dysfunction affects millions of people, causing discomfort and interfering with daily life. This condition occurs when the pelvic floor muscles cannot properly relax and coordinate, leading to various symptoms that affect bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis that provides support and stability for vital organs, including:

• Bladder: Holds urine.
• Uterus and Vagina: (in women).
• Prostate: (in men).
• Rectum: Stores solid waste.

When these muscles fail to function properly—either tightening instead of relaxing or not coordinating effectively—it leads to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various ways, including:

Bowel Issues:

• Constipation.
• Straining or incomplete bowel movements.
• Stool leakage.

Urinary Problems:

• Urine leakage.
• Frequent urge to urinate.

Pain and Discomfort:

• Lower back pain.
• Pelvic pressure or discomfort.

Sexual Dysfunction:

• Pain during intercourse.
• Difficulty achieving orgasm.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with our board-certified urogynecologist for a thorough evaluation.

What Causes Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction can result from a combination of factors, including:

• Pregnancy and Childbirth: Strain during delivery can weaken pelvic floor muscles.
• Aging: Muscles naturally lose strength over time.

Chronic Conditions:

• Chronic constipation.
• Chronic coughing.

Lifestyle Factors:

• High-impact activities.
• Obesity.

Trauma or Surgery:

• Prostate surgery in men.
• Traumatic injuries (e.g., car accidents).

Stress and Genetics: Emotional stress and hereditary factors may also contribute.

The exact causes can vary between men and women, and multiple factors often combine to result in pelvic floor dysfunction.

Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. Diagnosis may include:

• Medical History: Discussing symptoms and risk factors with your doctor.
• Physical Examination: Testing pelvic muscle control and strength.

Specialized Testing:

• Evaluating bladder emptying.
• Assessing muscle function during bowel movements.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

At Atlanta Gyn Center, we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Common treatments include:

1. Biofeedback Therapy
   This non-invasive therapy uses sensors to monitor pelvic muscle activity, helping you learn to control and relax these muscles.
2. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
   Targeted exercises strengthen and improve coordination in pelvic floor muscles.
3. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes
   Avoiding constipation triggers.
   Adopting a fiber-rich diet.
   Maintaining a healthy weight.
4. Medications
   Certain medications can relax muscles or improve bowel function.
5. Kegel Exercises
   Strengthening and relaxing exercises specifically target pelvic muscles to improve control and alleviate symptoms.
6. Surgical Intervention
   For severe cases, surgery may be recommended to adjust or stimulate pelvic muscles and nerves.

Treatment will vary based on specific symptoms, such as overactive bladder, fecal incontinence, or bowel movement difficulties.