Chicago's

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

WHAT IS PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION?

For most people, having a bowel movement is an automatic function.  For some individuals, it is complicated and difficult.  Pelvic floor dysfunction is poor coordination between many muscles, nerves, and reflexes.  When a person wants to move their bowels, the muscles that should relax-do not.  The muscles that try to push out all of the stool in the rectum cannot, and incomplete evacuation occurs.  Stool may be left behind causing a partial blockage.  Then only liquid stool comes out and may result in fecal incontinence.

HOW IS PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION DIAGNOSED?

The diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction requires many things.  A good history and physical exam.  Several tests help with the diagnosis:  anal-rectal manomtery, nerve testing, colonoscopy, and rectal xrays.

HOW IS PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION TREATED?

Depending on the cause, pelvic floor dysfunction has different treatments.  Medications can assist if the problem is primarily constipation or diarrhea.  If there is an anatomic defect, that can be surgically corrected (rectocele).  When poor muscle coordination is found, retraining of the pelvic floor muscles, with biofeedback is helpful.  About 75% of people improve with biofeedback.