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The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments located in the lower part of the pelvis. These muscles act like a supporting hammock, holding up the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus (in women), and rectum. When these muscles do not function as they should - either becoming too weak or too tight - it results in a condition known as Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD).



Although often underdiagnosed, pelvic floor dysfunction affects both men and women and can significantly impair quality of life. At Kaizen Gastro Care, we frequently encounter patients suffering from unexplained bowel, bladder, or pelvic issues, only to discover they stem from undiagnosed pelvic floor dysfunction. Here are key signs to watch out for and advice on when it's time to consult a specialist.



Common Signs You Might Have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction can manifest in different forms, and symptoms may differ from person to person. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for:

Constipation or Incomplete Bowel Movements: Chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, or feeling like your bowel doesn't empty completely may be linked to PFD. This happens when the pelvic floor muscles fail to relax correctly, blocking stool passage.

Frequent Urination or Urgency: Do you feel the urge to urinate frequently or struggle with sudden urges that are hard to control? This could be a sign that your pelvic floor muscles are overactive or not coordinating well.



Urinary Leakage or Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising - commonly known as stress incontinence?-?is another indicator of weak pelvic floor muscles.

Pain During Bowel Movements: If you experience pain while passing stools or feel pressure in your rectum, it could be a sign that your pelvic floor muscles are too tight or not relaxing properly.



Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Persistent pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or perineal area without an identifiable cause can often be linked to pelvic floor dysfunction. This pain may aggravate when sitting for long periods.



Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia): In women, tight pelvic floor muscles may cause pain during or after sexual intercourse. This is often an unseen sign but can have a significant impact on quality of life.

A Sensation of Heaviness or "Falling Out" in the Pelvic Area: This may mean pelvic organ prolapse, where the pelvic organs shift out of their normal position due to weak pelvic floor muscles.

Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urination: Trouble initiating or completing urination, or a slow stream, could signal poor coordination of the pelvic muscles.

Unexplained Lower Back Pain: Pelvic floor issues can refer pain to in the lower back or tailbone, particularly when these muscles are in constant spasm or tension.

Causes and Risk Factors for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:

Several aspects can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, including:

Childbirth

Chronic constipation and straining

Heavy lifting or high-impact sports

Pelvic surgeries or injuries

Obesity

Aging and hormonal changes

Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or stroke

Both men and women can be affected, though it is more commonly diagnosed in women due to the anatomical and hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menopause.



When to See a Doctor?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a treatable condition, and early diagnosis can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life. You should consider seeing a specialist if:

Your symptoms are persistent or worsening

You're avoiding social or work situations due to incontinence or discomfort

Over-the-counter medications for constipation or bladder issues aren't working

You're experiencing pain that affects your sexual or daily life

You've had previous pelvic surgeries or childbirth injuries

How a Gastrophysiologist and Biofeedback Specialist Can Help?

At Kaizen Gastro Care, we take a multidisciplinary and personalized approach to diagnosing and managing pelvic floor dysfunction. As a Consultant Gastrophysiologist and Biofeedback Specialist in Pune utilize advanced diagnostic tools like:

Anorectal Manometry - to evaluate rectal and anal muscle function

Balloon Expulsion Test - to assess defecation mechanics

Colonic Transit Study - to identify slow transit constipation

Electromyography (EMG) - to measure muscle activity

Biofeedback Therapy - a non-invasive and highly effective treatment where patients learn to retrain their pelvic muscles with real-time feedback

Biofeedback therapy has shown incredible success in improving symptoms of constipation, pelvic pain, and incontinence - especially in patients who have not responded well to conventional medications.



Conclusion:



Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is a hidden yet treatable cause of many everyday discomforts. Unfortunately, it's often ignored due to embarrassment or lack of awareness. If you're facing chronic constipation, bladder control problems, pelvic pain, or sexual discomfort, don't suffer in silence.