Pelvic Floor Issue
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition where you can’t correctly relax and coordinate the muscles in your pelvic floor to urinate (pee) or have a bowel movement (poop). Think of your pelvis as being home to organs like your bladder, uterus, prostate and rectum. Your pelvic floor muscles are the home’s foundation. They’re the support structure keeping everything in place.
Normally, you’re able to go to the bathroom without issue because your body tightens and relaxes your pelvic floor muscles. This is just like any other muscular action, like tightening your biceps when you lift a heavy box or clenching your fist.
But if you have pelvic floor dysfunction, your body keeps tightening these muscles instead of relaxing them. This tension means you may have:
- Trouble evacuating (releasing) a bowel movement.
- An incomplete bowel movement.
- Pee or poop leakage.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction?
The following signs and symptoms can let you know you might have a pelvic floor issue:
- Frequent bathroom visits.
- Having to frequently start and stop when you’re trying to pee.
- Straining or pushing to pass a bowel movement.
- Having to change positions on the toilet or use your hand to eliminate stool.
- Constipation (Experts estimate that up to half of the people with long-term constipation also have pelvic floor dysfunction).
- Leaking stool (fecal incontinence).
- Leaking urine (urinary incontinence).
- Painful urination.
- Unexplained low back pain.
- Ongoing pain in your pelvic region, genitals or rectum — with or without a bowel movement.
What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?
Experts don’t know the exact cause of pelvic floor dysfunction. But, a few known factors may play a role. These include:
- Traumatic injuries to your pelvic area (like a car accident or a fall from a high place).
- Overusing your pelvic muscles (straining to go).
- Prior pelvic surgery (like a hysterectomy or prostatectomy).
- Pregnancy and childbirth (especially difficult deliveries).
- Aging (muscles naturally weaken somewhat over time).
- Stress and anxiety.
- Connective tissue disorders.
Diagnosis and Tests
How is pelvic floor dysfunction diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will usually start by asking about your symptoms and taking a medical history. Your provider may ask:
- Do you strain to poop?
- Are you able to empty your bladder?
- Do you feel empty after a bowel movement?
- How often do you poop or pee?
If you’re AFAB, they may ask about prior pregnancies and if you’re experiencing pain during sex.