The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, nerves, and connective tissue that supports the organs in the pelvis, including the bladder, rectum, uterus and vagina (women), and prostate (men). Pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to frustrating and painful symptoms, but we can help.
Condition in
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Condition in
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Overview
What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to difficulty relaxing and coordinating the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles play a key role in controlling urination, bowel movements, and sexual function. When they do not function properly, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable or disruptive symptoms.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is common and treatable. With the right care, many individuals can improve muscle coordination, reduce symptoms, and restore daily function. If you are experiencing symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a pelvic health specialist to explore personalized treatment options.
What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Symptoms for pelvic floor dysfunction can vary widely and are sometimes mistaken for other conditions. They often result from pelvic floor muscles that are too tight, too weak, or not coordinating properly.
- Difficulty with bowel movements. Some individuals may have trouble initiating or completing a bowel movement because pelvic floor muscles do not relax appropriately. This is sometimes referred to as dyssynergic defecation.
- Constipation or straining. Chronic constipation or the need to strain can occur when pelvic floor muscles fail to coordinate effectively, making it difficult to pass stool even when the urge is present.
- Urinary leakage or urgency. Loss of bladder control or a sudden, strong urge to urinate may occur when pelvic muscles do not provide adequate support or respond appropriately to bladder signals.
- Frequent urination. Some individuals feel the need to urinate more often than usual, even when the bladder is not full. This may be linked to muscle tension or disrupted communication between the bladder and pelvic floor.
- Pain during intercourse. Tight or uncoordinated pelvic floor muscles can contribute to discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
- Pelvic pain or pressure. Ongoing discomfort, heaviness, or pressure in the pelvic region may be associated with muscle tension, weakness, or imbalance affecting support of pelvic organs.
- Lower back or hip discomfort related to pelvic instability. The pelvic floor works with core muscles to stabilize the body. Dysfunction may contribute to instability, leading to strain or discomfort in the lower back, hips, or pelvis.
These symptoms are common and often improve with appropriate evaluation and treatment.
What Causes Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction can develop due to a combination of physical, hormonal, and lifestyle factors that affect muscle strength, coordination, and support over time.
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Pregnancy and childbirth can place significant strain on the pelvic floor, leading to muscle weakness, injury, or poor coordination. Research shows vaginal delivery is associated with a higher risk of pelvic floor disorders. Early evaluation and care can help restore function, reduce symptoms, and support long-term pelvic health and recovery.
If you are experiencing symptoms during or after pregnancy, we recommend exploring M Health Fairview’s OB-GYN services. Our specialists can help support your pelvic health before, during, and after pregnancy.
Genetics, Aging and Hormonal Changes
Genetics can influence connective tissue strength and how well pelvic floor muscles provide support. Over time, aging may reduce muscle tone and elasticity. Hormonal changes—particularly during menopause—can also affect tissue integrity and responsiveness. Together, these factors may contribute to symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic pressure, or reduced muscle control, even without a specific injury.
Pelvic Surgery, Trauma or Radiation
Surgery, injury, or radiation in the pelvic region can affect muscle strength, nerve signaling, and coordination. These changes may disrupt how the pelvic floor contracts and relaxes, leading to symptoms that develop gradually over time.
Obesity
Excess body weight places ongoing pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, which can weaken support and affect muscle coordination. Over time, this may increase the risk of urinary incontinence, constipation, and pelvic organ support concerns. Additional strain during activities such as lifting or coughing can further challenge muscle function.
High-Impact Physical Activity
Activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure—such as running or heavy lifting—place repeated strain on the pelvic floor. Without adequate strength, coordination, and recovery, this can lead to muscle fatigue, overactivity, or weakening, contributing to symptoms such as leakage, discomfort, or instability.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy and Treatment
Pelvic floor therapy focuses on improving muscle function, reducing symptoms, and restoring quality of life through personalized, non-invasive care.
Improved bladder and bowel control
Therapy helps retrain muscles to function more effectively, reducing urinary leakage, urgency, and difficulty with bowel movements.
Reduced pain and discomfort
Targeted techniques address muscle tension and irritation, helping relieve pelvic pain and improve comfort during daily activities..
Better core strength and stability
Improving pelvic floor function supports the broader core, enhancing posture, balance, and overall movement.
Improved sexual health
Pelvic floor therapy can reduce discomfort during intercourse by improving muscle relaxation and control, supporting better function, comfort, and confidence.
Non-surgical, personalized care
Many pelvic floor conditions can be managed without surgery. We develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs and goals.
Our approach
What to Expect from Pelvic Floor Care
Comprehensive Evaluation and Personalized Care Plan
At M Health Fairview, care begins with a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and movement patterns. Our specialists take time to understand your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Guided Therapy and Education
We provide treatment that may include hands-on therapy, guided exercises, and education to improve muscle coordination and function. Patients also learn strategies to support pelvic health in everyday activities.
Ongoing Support and Progress Tracking
We use follow-up visits to monitor progress and make adjustments to your care plan. Ongoing support ensures that treatment evolves with your needs and goals.
Integrated, Team-Based Care
Our pelvic floor specialists collaborate with OB-GYNs, urologists, colorectal specialists, and physical therapists to provide coordinated, comprehensive care.
FAQs About Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition in which the pelvic muscles do not properly relax or coordinate. This can affect bladder, bowel, and sexual function, leading to symptoms such as pain, leakage, or difficulty with bowel movements.
Common pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms include urinary leakage, frequent urination, constipation, pelvic pain or pressure, and discomfort during intercourse. Symptoms vary depending on whether muscles are tight, weak, or not coordinating properly.
Some mild symptoms may improve over time, but many cases benefit from targeted therapy. Without treatment, symptoms may persist or worsen.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is often treated by pelvic health physical therapists, along with OB-GYNs, urologists, or colorectal specialists depending on your symptoms.
The length of therapy varies based on symptoms and individual goals. Some patients see improvement within a few weeks, while others benefit from longer-term care and follow-up.
Pelvic floor therapy is generally gentle and tailored to comfort level. Some techniques may feel unfamiliar, but treatment is adjusted to ensure patients feel safe and supported.
Providers for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Our pelvic floor specialists provide individualized, evidence-based care to support bladder, bowel, and pelvic health across all stages of life.
When to Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy
It may be helpful to seek care if you experience persistent symptoms such as urinary leakage, constipation, pelvic pain, or discomfort during daily activities. Support is also beneficial during postpartum recovery or if symptoms are worsening over time.
Locations for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
M Health Fairview Women's Clinic - Minneapolis
M Health Fairview Women's Clinic - Minneapolis
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Maple Grove
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Maple Grove
Treatments for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
M Health Fairview offers pelvic floor therapy services across Minnesota, making it easier to access specialized care close to home.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Services at M Health Fairview
Adult Pelvic Health Physical Therapy
Adult pelvic health physical therapy focuses on improving strength, coordination, and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. Care may include targeted exercises, manual therapy, biofeedback, and education to support long-term function. Pelvic floor exercises, such as those outlined by Harvard Health, can play an important role in improving muscle function and supporting overall pelvic health.
Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and may address bladder control, bowel function, pelvic pain, or recovery after pregnancy or surgery. Therapy emphasizes practical strategies that patients can integrate into daily life.
Services for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
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