What Is The “Pelvic Floor”?

Posted: December 29, 2011

Question: What exactly does the term “pelvic floor” mean?

Answer: At Aguirre Specialty Care in Denver, we understand that many women are unaware of the importance of the pelvic floor, and how common it may actually be to have a weakened pelvis due to childbirth. We think it’s important for our patients to understand how their bodies work.

Many of our patients at Aguirre Specialty Care visit us for urogynecological care with problems that we determine to be associated with their pelvic floor. The pelvic floor  describes the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that provide support for a woman’s internal organs in the region known as the pelvis (including the bowel, bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum). More than just keeping the organs in place, it helps ensure that these organs function properly.

Dr. Oscar A. Aguirre, fellowship-trained urogynecologist, explains, “Often after childbirth the pelvic floor can become damaged or weakened and sometimes unable to support the weight of the other pelvic and abdominal organs.  Generally, the more vaginal deliveries, the worse the condition.  The good news is that we can correct many of the issues associated with damage to the pelvic floor.”

Some of the symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Incontinence
  • Urge but inability to urinate
  • Chronic Pelvic Pain/Burning
  • Bowel Dysfunction
  • Decreased sexual pleasure

It’s not uncommon for a woman to experience decreased sensation and sexual satisfaction during intercourse due to changes to the pelvic floor, as vaginal relaxation frequently leads to decreased feelings of friction and loss of sexual satisfaction.

If you are experiencing any of these conditions please contact Aguirre Specialty Care, today. Through consultation, Dr. Aguirre can determine if you have a condition and recommend solutions.  Call us at 303.322.0500.