Are pelvic floor muscles functioning correctly? Over 25% of women suffered from Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PSD)

Over 25% of all women are believed to suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), and this number is generally considered to be an underestimation due to the sensitive nature of the symptoms; meaning that many cases go unreported.

The pelvic floor muscles are a crucial part of our musculoskeletal system, providing support for our internal organs, support for our unborn baby when pregnant, controlling continence and playing an important part in the sexual function.

Signs that your pelvic floor muscles may not be functioning correctly include constipation or IBS type symptoms, frequency urinating or leaking of urine, pain during intercourse and unexplained pain in the groin, lower back, genitals and abdomen.  Some or all of these symptoms may be present.

The causes of PFD are varied and often multiple, but some risk factors include pregnancy/childbirth, multiple vaginal deliveries, obesity, repetitive urinary tract infections and pelvic surgery.

Current research shows that individuals who experience chronic low back pain have an increased rate of pelvic floor dysfunction, due to the altered activity of the muscles in response.  In individuals who experience back pain during pregnancy, there is a 7x increase in the likelihood of PFD and continence issues in the future.

At In Touch Physio, our specialist pelvic floor physiotherapy can help with PFD by: examining the function of the pelvic floor muscles and identifying any discrepancies or issues, working on these through specialist release or strengthening work, providing you with information and tools with which to manage your symptoms and re-train your muscles and pelvic behaviours, helping you to reinvent your quality of life through positive rehab and change!