Northwestern Medicine Women's Integrated Pelvic Health Program

Pelvic floor disorders are a group of conditions that affect the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor consists of the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue in the pelvis that support your pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum). The pelvic floor prevents your organs from falling or protruding outside your body and plays an important role in how your organs work. When the pelvic floor muscles or connective tissue are torn or do not work properly, the pelvic organs may not function correctly and you may develop symptoms of a pelvic floor disorder.

The three main types of pelvic floor disorders are:

• Urinary incontinence or frequent urination
• Bowel problems: anal incontinence, accidental bowel leakage or constipation
• Pelvic organ prolapse

Other related disorders that Northwestern Medicine pelvic floor specialists frequently treat:

Depending on the type of pelvic floor disorder, women may experience a variety of symptoms. Most pelvic floor disorders are not dangerous but worsen over time and create bothersome symptoms that can interfere with or limit your activities.

Some symptoms that suggest you may have a pelvic floor disorder include:

Treatments will vary depending on the type of pelvic floor disorder. The specialists at Northwestern Medicine will offer all the latest non-surgical and surgical treatments and will help tailor a treatment plan based on the severity of each woman’s condition and her preferences for treatment. Frequently simple interventions and lifestyle changes can improve patient’s symptoms and quality of life.

Treatments for pelvic floor disorders include: