Glossary · Conditions

Pelvic floor dysfunction

Definition: Pelvic floor dysfunction is impaired function of the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs. It manifests as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, or chronic pelvic pain. Pelvic floor physical therapy is first-line treatment for most forms.

Detailed definition

The pelvic floor is a layered structure of skeletal muscle (levator ani, coccygeus), ligaments, and fascia spanning the pelvic outlet. Its functions are organ support, urinary and fecal continence, sexual function, and lumbar/pelvic stability. Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) encompasses several conditions: weakness/laxity (contributing to stress incontinence and prolapse), hypertonicity/spasm (contributing to dyspareunia, vaginismus, chronic pelvic pain, and constipation), and incoordination (combined with either pattern). Risk factors include vaginal delivery (especially traumatic), connective tissue conditions, chronic cough or constipation, obesity, and postmenopausal tissue changes. Diagnosis is clinical with examination and increasingly with pelvic floor PT assessment. Treatment is largely non-surgical: pelvic floor PT with biofeedback, dilator therapy, manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and behavioral changes. Surgery is reserved for prolapse and select incontinence cases.

Why it matters in menopause

Pelvic floor PT is one of the highest-yield, lowest-risk interventions for postmenopausal women with incontinence, dyspareunia, or chronic pelvic pain. Most women have never been referred. ClearedRx routinely refers patients with these symptoms for pelvic floor PT alongside any indicated hormone therapy.

Sources

External references: Wikipedia.

← Back to full glossary