Wait, is it a UTI or is it Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common condition that affects many people, particularly women. It occurs when the muscles of the pelvic floor, located at the base of the pelvis, become weak or hyperactive. A hyperactive pelvic floor is where the muscles are under constant tension and don’t fully relax to their usual resting state. Not only does a hyperactive pelvic floor have a lot of the same symptoms of a UTI making them easy to get confused, they also go hand in hand together – UTIs make you more likely to develop a hyperactive pelvic floor and a hyperactive pelvic floor makes you more likely to develop UTIs. This occurs via a cycle of your body responding to the threat by staying in a constant state of contraction in order to try and protect the body. Then, when it comes time to go to the toilet to urinate, the pelvic floor muscles may not be able to relax enough or fully which can cause incomplete emptying of your bladder, which makes you more prone to developing another UTI.
So what is the Pelvic Floor?
You might be surprised to learn that you have a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis, often referred to as your pelvic floor, and even more surprised that it is intricately connected to your urinary health. Despite our unawareness of these muscles, the pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing your spine and core; supporting your pelvic organs (bladder, intestines, colon, and uterus or prostate); helping control our urine, flatulence and bowel movements; as well as contributing to our sexual health and satisfaction. When these muscles are weak, tight, or dysfunctional, it can lead to a ripple effect of problems, including mimicking UTI symptoms.
If you are experiencing symptoms of PFD or a UTI, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. A healthcare provider can perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, to assess the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles. They may also order tests, such as a urine test, to rule out a UTI. If your urine test is negative for UTI and if your symptoms do not respond to antibiotics, most likely your symptoms are PFD not a UTI.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, including the bladder, bowel, and uterus. They also help control bladder and bowel function. When these muscles are weak or overactive, it can lead to various problems, such as:
Urinary Issues:
Urinary incontinence: Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising.
Urinary urgency: Feeling a sudden, strong urge to urinate.
Frequent urination: less than 2 hours between bathroom trips.
Difficulty starting the urine stream.
Bowel Issues:
Constipation or difficulty passing stools.
Fecal incontinence.
Pelvic or rectal pain.
Pain and Discomfort:
Pelvic pain: Chronic or intermittent pain in the pelvic region.
Coccydynia (tailbone pain).
Vaginal pain or irritation to clothing, pressure or touch.
Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area.
Sexual Dysfunction:
Difficulty achieving orgasm.
Pain during intercourse.
Clitoral or Vulvar pain to touch.
Other Symptoms:
Lower back pain.
Hip pain.
Treatment for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Treatment for PFD depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Common treatment options include:
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: A physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor health can teach you exercises that aim to strengthen, relax, or improve the coordination of your pelvic floor muscles. Kegels are a common starting point, but there are many other exercises that may be beneficial.
Postural and core strengthening exercises: Improving overall core stability, posture habits and body mechanics with daily tasks can benefit pelvic floor health.
Education and lifestyle modifications: Understanding your condition, making dietary changes, and managing stress can play a significant role in your recovery.
Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms, such as overactive bladder medications.
Preventing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
To prevent PFD, it is important to practice good pelvic floor health. This includes:
Avoiding straining: Avoid straining during bowel movements or lifting heavy objects.
Regular exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, including whole body strengthening.
Good bowel habits: Avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water.
Urinate regularly: Normal frequency is peeing every 2-4 hours. Don’t hold for prolonged periods of time. Don’t go often without an urge to urinate (“just in case peeing”). These can both change our normal bladder sensations to alert us when we need to pee
By understanding the symptoms of PFD and seeking appropriate treatment, you can improve your quality of life and alleviate the discomfort associated with this condition.
Find a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
If you're experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, seeking professional help is essential. Remember, seeking help for pelvic floor dysfunction is a sign of strength, not weakness. With the right guidance and treatment, you can regain control of your pelvic health and improve your overall quality of life.
Pelvic Floor Therapy at Movement is Medicine
Our pelvic floor therapist, Dr. Meghan Karol, helps women with a wide variety of pelvic conditions including postpartum recovery. Dr. Meghan loves spending one-on-one treatment time to provide empowering education to her patients helping them integrate their self-treatments and lifestyle changes into their practical day to day lives. With three young boys at home, Dr. Meghan knows life doesn’t slow down just because mom isn’t feeling good. Call us today to learn more about how Movement is Medicine can help keep you active with all your life.