User:Mr. Ibrahem/Pelvic floor disorders

Pelvic floor disorders, also known as pelvic floor dysfunction, is group of conditions believed to occur when pelvic floor muscles are not functioning properly. Symptoms may include pelvic pain or pressure, pain during sex, incontinence of urine or stool, constipation, or pelvic organ prolapse.

The cause is generally unclear. Potential factors may include injury to the pelvic floor, sexual abuse, poorly learned evacuation techniques, lower back pain, endometriosis, and certain medications such as calcium channel blockers or antihistamines. Risk factors include being overweight, prior hysterectomy, smoking, and having children. The underlying mechanism may involve increase, decreased, or poorly coordinated muscle activity.

Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, medical devices, or surgery. Lifestyle changes may include, exercising and a healthy diet. Medical devices may include pessaries. In women, pelvic floor physical therapy, is often useful.

Pelvic floor disorders are common, affected about 25% of women at some point in time. They affects females more often than males. The disorders become more common with age. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs in half of women who have given birth. Stigmatization occurs in some cultures and therefore women may not seek care. It is thus recommended that direct screening for urinary problems occur yearly.