3 Ways to Reduce Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

While pelvic floor dysfunction can arise for many different reasons, there are some factors that increase the risk of developing these issues.  Taking the time to discuss these factors with patients is critical to healing and rehabilitation.  Here are the 3 topics I discuss with every patient with pelvic floor dysfunction:

Are you drinking enough water?  People with incontinence often restrict fluid intake because it makes them more likely to leak or go to the bathroom more.  However, adequate hydration is important not only for overall health but because when the urine is concentrated it can be more irritating to the bladder and cause increased symptoms.  With treatment, frequency and urgency of urination can improve.

How is your diet?  When certain nutrients are lacking, constipation can become an issue.  Constipation is a common problem among those with pelvic floor dysfunction.  With constipation, there is more strain on the pelvic floor muscles which can increase issues such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, and pelvic pain.  To prevent constipation I encourage increased water intake, increased fiber in the diet, and increased exercise.

How are your bathroom habits?  For example, do you go to the bathroom “just in case” or rush through using the bathroom?  These habits can cause a disconnect between the brain and bladder.  With frequent urination, the brain tells the bladder to empty sooner than it should have to.  With rushing, the bladder is not always emptied completely resulting in the person needing to urinate more frequently.

The good news is that pelvic floor dysfunction can be treated and sometimes only a few physical therapy treatments are needed.  For more, information call (847) 220-4998 or email April@pelvicbalance.com.