Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) is a condition in which the muscles that form the pelvic floor (the muscular base of the abdomen) become damaged, weakened, or chronically tightened. The muscles and connective tissue that make up the pelvic floor provide support for the uterus, bladder, vagina and rectum. When this supportive tissue becomes damaged, it is not uncommon for many women to experience pain, discomfort and other challenging issues.
The most common causes of PFD include:
- Endometriosis
- Childbirth
- Chronic constipation/straining
- Abdominal surgery
- Strenuous activity like weightlifting
Some of the most common symptoms of PFD include:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Urinary incontinence
- Painful sex
- Shifting/prolapse of organs in the pelvis
- Difficulty having regular bowel movements
- Pain with bowel movements
- Pain with urination
- Incomplete urination
- Feeling chronically bloated
Treatment of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Treatment for PFD will vary depending on the severity of the case and which organs are affected. Acupuncture and integrative medicine can support PFD patients by helping to provide more optimal blood flow to the pelvic area, reducing inflammation and pain and softening scar tissue.
Acupuncture, nutrition and herbal medicine may also support patients dealing with prolapse, painful sex and urinary incontinence, bowel issues and more. By working with the circulatory, endocrine, digestive and immune systems, acupuncture can help to restore deep balance in the body, ultimately resulting in better overall health and improved pelvic floor function.
