Conditions

Pelvic floor disorders occur when the "sling" or "hammock" that supports the pelvic organs becomes weak or damaged, causing lack of bladder control, lack of bowel control, or Pelvic organ prolapse, a condition in which the uterus, bladder and bowel may "drop" onto the vagina causing a bulge through the vaginal canal. Childbirth is one of the primary causes.

Symptoms

• An urgent need to urinate, painful urination or incomplete emptying of your bladder
• Constipation, straining, or pain during bowel movements
• Pain or pressure in the vagina or rectum
• A heavy feeling in the pelvis or a bulge in the vagina or rectum
• Muscle spasms in the pelvis

Treatment

• Physical therapy
• Medication
• Placement of pessaries (small silicon devices, similar to the diaphragm, that hold the organs in position)
• Surgical reconstruction