Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia Doctor Houston
The pelvic floor, an essential part of the body’s core, extends from the pubic bone to the coccyx (tailbone). While people often overlook the importance of pelvic floor muscles in their fitness routines, maintaining a strong pelvic floor is crucial as it supports the bladder, uterus, bowel, and rectum.
Pelvic floor dyssynergia (also known as pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic dyssynergia) is a painful condition where the muscles in the pelvic floor become uncoordinated, leading to an inability to relax properly. Although more common in women, both men and women can experience this disorder.
Causes of Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia
Nearly a quarter of U.S. women suffer from one or more pelvic disorders, including pelvic floor dysfunction. While the exact causes are still being researched, some contributing factors include:
- Being overweight
- Advanced age
- Pelvic surgery
- Traumatic injuries to the pelvic area
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Overuse of the pelvic muscles
- Injuries from trauma or sexual abuse
- Nerve damage in the pelvic floor
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia
Individuals with pelvic floor dyssynergia typically have difficulty relaxing their pelvic floor muscles, leading to issues with urination and bowel movements. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle spasms in the pelvis
- Anismus or dyssynergic defecation (failure to relax pelvic floor muscles during defecation)
- Painful defecation resulting in constipation
- Intense pressure or pain in the lower abdomen, vagina, or rectum
- Urinary incontinence
- Anal incontinence
- Genital or pelvic pain
- Constipation or bowel strains
- Unexplained lower back pain
- Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse for women
It’s important to seek medical advice rather than self-diagnose if you experience these symptoms, as untreated pelvic dysfunction can lead to more serious conditions like worsening pain, infection, or colon damage.
Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia and Pregnancy
Pregnant women are particularly at risk of developing pelvic dyssynergia. The strain on the pelvic floor muscles and tissues during pregnancy and labor can weaken them, leading to dysfunction. Factors increasing this risk include traumatic birth, use of forceps, sphincter damage, delivery length, fetal position, advanced maternal age, and fetal head circumference.
Pelvic floor dyssynergia can affect women during pregnancy, after delivery, and even years later. Many women may feel embarrassed or think their symptoms are a normal part of pregnancy, but it is a common and treatable condition. Consulting a doctor early can lead to effective management.
Diagnosing Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia
To diagnose pelvic floor dysfunction, your doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination. Diagnostic methods include:
- An internal exam using a perineometer in the rectum or vagina
- Electrode placement on the perineum to assess muscle contraction and relaxation
- Anorectal manometry to test the pressure, muscle strength, and coordination of the anal sphincters
- Uroflow test to determine bladder emptying efficiency
Treatment for Pelvic Dyssynergia
Pelvic floor dyssynergia can significantly impact your quality of life, causing pain and discomfort. Fortunately, it is highly treatable with various options:
- Muscle relaxants to prevent pelvic floor muscle contractions
- Relaxation and stress management activities such as warm baths, yoga, or stretching
- Physical therapy and biofeedback to learn how to relax and coordinate pelvic floor muscles
If dyssynergia results from a rectal prolapse, surgery may be an option to loosen and relax the affected muscles.
If you experience symptoms of pelvic floor dyssynergia, consult your doctor. They can diagnose the issue and develop a treatment plan to reduce pain and discomfort.
Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia Doctor Houston
