Several non-invasive treatment options for pelvic floor disorders

Did you know that 1 in 3 women suffer from or will develop a pelvic floor disorder during their lifetime?

Pelvic floor disorders are problems related to bladder, bowel and sexual function. These disorders include different types of urine leakage (incontinence) or bladder control problems like going frequently, getting up at night to urinate, or getting strong, uncontrollable urges to urinate. Pelvic floor disorders also include problems related to the bowels, such as accidental loss of gas or stool. A condition known as prolapse, which is a feeling that the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, vagina or rectum) are bulging or falling out, is also a pelvic floor disorder.

Often, women suffer silently from pelvic floor conditions. Many assume that these conditions are a normal part of the aging process or genetic. The risk for pelvic floor disorders does increase with age and are frequently linked to having children. But there are other reasons they can develop and other conditions that can make them worse.

While pelvic floor disorders are not life-threatening, they affect a woman’s quality of life. For that reason, women don’t always have to seek treatment right away and can choose when and how to address their condition based on how bothersome it is to them. It is important to discuss symptoms with an OBGYN provider, who may choose to further evaluate the condition before deciding on the most appropriate approach and timeline. In some cases, waiting to treat pelvic floor disorders just isn’t safe.

Once a pelvic floor disorder affects a woman’s quality of life, several evaluation and treatment options are available, including non-invasive approaches. In some cases, medication may be used to help improve symptoms. Topical therapy such as estrogen is often effective in reducing symptoms; support devices, known as pessaries, when inserted can also effectively treat symptoms and reduce the prolapse.

The best first step you can take to treat your symptoms is to make an appointment with your provider. Be open and honest with the doctor about your symptoms and ask about treatment options. A qualified physician and the right treatment will help you break free from pelvic floor disorders.

David Eisenstein, MD, FACOG, is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. He earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan School of Medicine and completed his obstetrics and gynecology residency at The George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He has clinical interests in minimally invasive procedures, including complex laparoscopic and robotic assisted laparoscopic surgeries, fibroid treatments, including radiofrequency fibroid ablation and myomectomy, laparoscopic excision of endometriosis and management of chronic pelvic pain.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eisenstein or another physician at IHA Obstetrics & Gynecology Rochester Hills call (248) 218-9260 or visit ihacares.com.