What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is the weave of muscle, ligament, nerve, and connective tissue that lines the inside base of the pelvis. This weave or “hammock” directly supports the reproductive organs, bladder, and rectum (and, less directly, all the organs of the body) and helps these pelvic organs function properly. Everyone has a pelvic floor – but not everyone’s pelvic floor is in optimal condition. In fact, according a study funded by the National Institutes of Health, almost 25% of women face pelvic floor disorders. “The study found that pelvic floor disorders affect about 10 percent of women ages 20 to 39, 27 percent of women ages 40 to 59, 37 percent of women ages 60 to 79 and nearly half of women age 80 or older.” (Source: UChicago Medicine)
What are Pelvic Floor Disorders?
There are three main types of disorders: pelvic organ prolapse, bowel incontinence, and urinary incontinence (read our blog post on urinary incontinence here). There are ways of preventing these problems, and of solving them with the help of your gynecologist. At Lona Sasser Obgyn in Coral Springs, we can help you keep on top of your pelvic health for proper pelvic organ function and improved overall well being! Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lona Sasser or Dr. Mary Squire-De Leon. Book online with Zocdoc or call our office at 954-340-1050.
How to Support Pelvic Floor Health
If you notice signs of weakened pelvic muscles, it’s important to bring them up with your gynecologist. According to the Victoria State Government Better Health Channel, some signs of a weakened pelvic muscles include:
- Leaking small amounts of urine when laughing, coughing, running, or sneezing
- Not being able to make it to the toilet in time
- Uncontrollably breaking wind when lifting or bending over
- Reduced vaginal sensation
Your gynecologist will be happy to discuss methods of strengthening and toning the muscles of the pelvis to address weakness. Some of the ways to do this include kegel exercises (repeated contraction and release of the pelvic muscles) and yoga.
What If I Have a Pelvic Floor Disorder?
At Lona Sasser Obgyn, we treat all disorders associated with pelvic floor weakness. We perform minimally invasive surgeries, and offer noninvasive pelvic floor stimulation therapy to treat urinary incontinence. We know it may feel uncomfortable to discuss these problems. The doctors at Lona Sasser’s practice are experienced, knowledgeable, and trusted by our patients. We would be happy to work together with you to treat your symptoms and provide relief. Book an appointment today!
Patient Reviews
Dr. Lona Sasser was just too wonderful for words (warm, understanding, and very knowledgeable, explains everything). I came from NYC and have searched down here for an OBGYN and I am so happy that I found her. I would recommend anyone looking for a really good OBGYN physician to contact her office. – Madelyn D., verified patient on Zocdoc
Dr. Squire-De Leon is very professional and knowledgeable. I would recommend her to my family and friends. – Irena A., verified patient on Zocdoc
Sources for This Article:
Frequently Asked Questions About Pelvic Floor Disorders – UChicago Medicine
Pelvic Floor – Better Health Channel