What We Treat

Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia

Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia (PFD), also known as Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, is a condition characterized by the inability to properly coordinate and relax the pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements. PFD significantly affects the ability to have regular bowel movements, leading to symptoms such as constipation, discomfort, and reduced quality of life. While both men and women can experience PFD, women, especially those who have given birth or undergone hormonal changes, are more likely to be affected.

People with Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia can improve their bowel function and overall quality of life through various treatment options, including biofeedback therapy, medications, and dietary changes. If you suspect that you may be experiencing symptoms of PFD, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia?

The main symptom of Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia is difficulty in passing stools. Other common symptoms may include:

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Constipation or incomplete evacuation
  • Pain or discomfort in the rectum or pelvic region
  • Frequent urge to defecate without successful bowel movements
  • Hemorrhoids or anal fissures caused by excessive straining

Since these symptoms can also be indicative of other gastrointestinal conditions, a proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is crucial.

What causes Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia?

The precise causes of Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

  • Psychological factors: PFD can develop as a result of stress, anxiety, and past traumatic experiences related to bowel movements.
  • Muscular abnormalities: Weakness or spasms of the pelvic floor muscles can disrupt the normal coordination required for proper bowel movements.
  • Neurological conditions: Certain neurological disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease, can impair the nerve signals that control the pelvic floor muscles.
    What are the risk factors for Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia?

PFD can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing the condition, including:

  • Age and gender: Middle-aged and older individuals, particularly women, are more likely to have PFD.
  • Chronic constipation: Prolonged constipation affects bowel habits and muscle function, increasing the risk of PFD.
  • Past traumatic experiences: Previous physical or sexual abuse may contribute to the development of PFD.
  • Psychological or neurological conditions: PFD symptoms may develop in individuals with anxiety, depression, MS, or Parkinson’s disease.

How is Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia diagnosed?

To diagnose Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia, our gynecologist will review your medical history and perform a digital rectal examination to assess the tone and strength of the pelvic floor muscles. They may also conduct an anorectal manometry test, which measures rectal pressure using a thin plastic probe inserted into the rectum. Additionally, a defecography, an imaging method utilizing fluoroscopy or X-rays, may be ordered to observe the rectum and pelvic floor muscles during defecation, helping to identify structural abnormalities or muscular dysfunction.

How is Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia treated?

The treatment for Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia aims to improve the coordination and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements. Treatment options include:

  • Biofeedback therapy: This approach uses sensors and visual or auditory cues to teach patients how to relax and coordinate their pelvic floor muscles.
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist, targeted exercises can help strengthen weak muscles and relax tense muscles. Pelvic floor physical therapy may include exercises such as Kegels, stretching, and relaxation techniques.
  • Medications: Certain medications may be recommended to treat symptoms and promote regular bowel movements. These can include laxatives, fiber supplements, or muscle relaxants, depending on the individual’s specific needs.
  • Behavioral and dietary changes: Making changes to one’s lifestyle and diet can greatly improve PFD symptoms. Developing healthy bowel habits, such as maintaining a regular bathroom routine, eating a balanced diet with sufficient fiber, staying hydrated, and managing stress levels, can all contribute to better bowel function.
  • Invasive therapies: In severe cases where conservative treatments have not been effective, invasive interventions may be considered. These can include:
  1. Botulinum toxin injections: Small doses of botulinum toxin injected into the pelvic floor muscles can temporarily relax the muscles, reducing spasms and improving coordination.
  2. Surgical interventions: Surgical procedures may be recommended to treat structural abnormalities or severe muscle dysfunction. For example, an anal sphincterotomy can be performed to treat an anal fissure, or rectopexy surgery may be used to treat rectal prolapse.

How can Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia be prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia, certain measures can help maintain optimal bowel function and minimize the risk of developing the condition. These include:

  • Healthy lifestyle: Following a balanced diet, rich in fiber, can help maintain regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated, managing stress levels, and avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements are also important.
  • Seeking timely treatment for constipation: Addressing chronic constipation promptly can help prevent long-term disruption to bowel habits and minimize the risk of PFD.
  • Addressing psychological and emotional well-being: Managing stress, anxiety, and addressing past traumatic experiences through therapy or counseling can help prevent or manage PFD symptoms.

Book your appointment at Novomed today!

It’s important to consult with an expert gynecologist or proctologist to determine the most suitable treatment options based on your individual circumstances and severity of symptoms. To book an appointment with one of our specialists, call us toll free at 8006686 or click the live chat icon at the bottom of the screen.

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