What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction is the inability to correctly relax and coordinate your pelvic floor muscles.
Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles found in the floor (the base) of your pelvis (the bottom of your torso). These muscles act as the support structure to keep your organs in place within your body and provide support and stability.
At Florida Urology Partners, our board-certified urologist, Dr. Bukkapatnam specializes in diagnosing and treating pelvic floor dysfunction. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at our state-of-the-art clinic in Tampa, FL, and regain control of your life. Call (813) 258-9565 or request an appointment online.
Your pelvic organs include:
- Your bladder (the pouch holding your urine)
- Your uterus and vagina (in women)
- Your prostate (in men)
- Your rectum (the area at the end of your large intestine where your body stores solid waste)
What are the Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
If you have pelvic floor dysfunction, your body may tighten the muscles instead of relaxing them as they should.
Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction may include:
- Constipation
- Straining to have a bowel movement
- Having an incomplete bowel movement
- Having urine or stool leakage
- Experiencing a frequent need to pee
- Unexplained lower back pain
- Issues with sexual function
What are the Causes of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Several factors can contribute to the development of pelvic floor dysfunction including:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Aging
- Chronic constipation
- Chronic cough
- Obesity
- Lifestyle factors
- High-impact activities
- Surgeries like prostate surgery
- Stress
- Traumatic injury like a car accident
- Hereditary factors
Causes may differ for males and females, and it may be a combination of factors that lead to pelvic floor dysfunction.
How to Diagnose Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Talk to Dr. Bukkapatnam for a proper diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction. It can sometimes be confused with other factors or conditions. Your provider will ask questions about your medical history as well as perform a physical exam to test how well you can control your pelvis muscles.
You may also need additional testing to see how well you can empty your bladder, how well your muscles are working, and how your muscles work to help with bowel movements.
What is the Treatment for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
After you talk with Dr. Bukkapatnam for an accurate diagnosis, we can develop a personalized treatment plan.
Initial treatments include:
- Biofeedback
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Exercises like Kegels to tighten and relax your muscles
- Diet or lifestyle changes
- Medications
- Surgery to help stimulate the nerves or adjust the muscles
Treatment will also depend if you experience overactive bladder or issues with fecal incontinence or issue with bowel movements.
Schedule a Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Appointment in Tampa, FL Today
When it comes to improving your pelvic health and well-being, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to our board-certified urologist, Dr. Bukkapatnam, in Tampa, FL. Our team specializes in helping individuals like you overcome pelvic floor dysfunction and find relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at (813) 258-9565.
