Pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition where the pelvic muscles are unable to relax or function as they should, can take many forms. The pelvis houses several vital reproductive organs including the vagina, bladder, uterus, and rectum. When the muscles of these pelvic organs are weakened, this can result in a wide range of reproductive health issues including urinary incontinence, pain during sex, and constipation. Pelvic floor therapy utilizes a regimen of exercises (specifically tailored to the needs of each patient) that are designed to encourage relaxation and strengthening of the muscles in the pelvic area. We wanted to take a moment to discuss pelvic floor therapy and how it can help women who experience pelvic floor dysfunction.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Can help women following pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnancy and giving birth are among the leading causes of pelvic floor dysfunction in women. The pelvic floor muscles and tissues can become strained, especially in cases of long or difficult labor. Pelvic floor therapy can often provide considerable relief to women following pregnancy.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Cannot effectively treat female concerns that do not result from pelvic floor dysfunction. For instance, a woman may experience pain during sex as a result of other reproductive health issues like endometriosis or vaginal dryness. It’s important to understand the root cause of these symptoms in order to most successfully treat them.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Can increase sex drive in women. For some women, a consistent lack of sexual urge can develop over time as sex becomes unsatisfying, uncomfortable, or even painful. Pelvic floor therapy can help by relaxing the pelvic floor muscles and relieving the tension that many women experience during intercourse.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Can assist women in reducing symptoms after transitioning into menopause. It’s common for pelvic floor dysfunction to occur after menopause due to hormone changes that a woman experiences. Pelvic floor therapy can relieve common symptoms and even help prevent potentially more serious conditions like pelvic organ prolapse.
When performed by the experts, pelvic floor therapy can be incredibly beneficial for women of all ages. While we understand that it can seem difficult or embarrassing to discuss these topics, reaching out to your reproductive healthcare provider is the first step towards reproductive health and wellness. For more information, to request an appointment for pelvic floor therapy, or to consult with our board-certified gynecologist or another of our licensed providers, please don’t hesitate to contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. You can also follow along with us on Facebook and our medical spa, MadEmEl Medical Aesthetics, on Instagram.
