About Pelvic Floor Disorders

Research shows that 46% of women experience at least one pelvic floor disorder (PFD). PFD encompasses a range of conditions affecting the pelvic floor, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and pelvic pain. These occur when the pelvic floor muscles become overly tight or weakened.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that function like a hammock, providing support to the pelvic organs. During pregnancy, these muscles stretch to prepare for childbirth. However, factors like vaginal birth, assisted delivery, and pelvic diaphragm injury can contribute to the development of PFD.

Vaginal Birth

During active labor, the pelvic floor must relax and stretch to allow the baby to pass through. If the muscles cannot stretch adequately, trauma can occur. Studies link vaginal birth to conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Assisted Vaginal Birth

The use of instruments such as forceps, vacuums, or episiotomies during delivery increases the risk of PFD. These interventions can place excessive strain on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to injury. As the body heals, scar tissue may form, disrupting normal muscle function and leading to issues like incontinence or pain during intercourse.

Pelvic Diaphragm Injury

The pelvic diaphragm, primarily formed by the levator ani muscle, plays a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs. Studies show that 91% of women seven weeks postpartum experience injury to the levator ani or pubic bone. This trauma significantly increases the risk of urinary incontinence.

 

Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Disorders

  • Incontinence: Leaking when sneezing, laughing, coughing, jumping, or lifting
  • Constipation
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Low back pain
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Pain during intercourse, bowel movements, or urination

 

How We Help at Crux Sport & Spine

"Life should be lived, not limited"

Pelvic floor disorders are common after childbirth but should never be considered normal or ignored. At Crux Sport & Spine, our St. George chiropractors will assess your core stability in relation to your pelvic floor muscles and pelvis. We then provide tailored therapeutic exercises to restore proper pelvic floor function, helping you achieve a healthier, more comfortable life.

Don’t live with symptoms assuming they're an inevitable part of motherhood—you deserve better care.

Visit Crux Sport & Spine today!