Pelvic Floor Conditions

Pelvic floor dysfunction, also called pelvic floor disorders, occur when the pelvic floor — muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that support the pelvic organs — becomes weakened, injured and loses its elasticity.  Organs in the pelvis include the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. The pelvic floor plays an important role in urination, moving the bowels and reproductive functions and without the support of these important muscles and ligaments, the function of pelvic organs can be affected.

Pelvic floor dysfunction causes physical discomfort as well as limits the activities many people enjoy, from exercise to social activities. Symptoms of these disorders vary from person to person as do the risk factors for the conditions. At Holy Cross Health, our goal is to restore function and your quality of life with the most personalized care.

Risk Factors of Pelvic Floor Disorders

While women are far more likely to be affected by pelvic floor dysfunction than men, both genders can be affected. Risk factors include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Age, with older women at greater risk
• Conditions such as obesity, chronic constipation or coughing, atrophy of pelvic tissues during menopause, lung issues that increase pelvic pressure, nerve and muscle diseases, and kidney or bladder stones
• Radiation or pelvic surgery, which can injure pelvic floor muscles and tissues
• Behaviors such as smoking, repetitive heavy lifting and excessive caffeine consumption
• Enlarged prostate in men

Common Conditions and Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor disorders often cause pain and pelvic pressure. Symptoms will vary depending on the type of damage that has occurred. Individuals with pelvic floor disorders may experience:

• Urinary incontinence - The unintentional leaking of urine caused by overactive bladder or stress incontinence.
• Fecal incontinence - The accidental leakage of stool or gas.
• Pelvic organ prolapse - The bulging or protrusion ("prolapse") of the pelvic organs (such as the uterus, bladder and bowels) which slip out of their normal position due to weak pelvic floor muscles. In some cases, these organs may protrude through the opening of the vagina.
• Other Pelvic Health Conditions, such as:
  • Abnormal or difficulty emptying of the bladder.
  • Painful bladder syndrome, a chronic inflammatory condition of the bladder lining.
  • Chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Our pelvic floor team at Holy Cross Hospital and Holy Cross Germantown Hospital is committed to delivering personalized care and the best outcomes for individuals living with pelvic floor dysfunction.