Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

A wide variety of symptoms can occur in patients who struggle with pelvic floor dysfunction depending upon their muscle condition. Both weak and tight muscles create functional distress, making it difficult to empty their bladders and/or enjoy intimacy. Weak muscles, however can also result in the collapse of muscles and, in some cases, the development of pelvic organ prolapse. In contrast, patients with tight muscles and pelvic floor trigger points, may suffer far more from pain and discomfort, including pain originating from the urethra, the bladder, the rectum and the prostate.

Symptoms of Weak Pelvic Floor Muscles

• Incontinence
• Pelvic floor prolapse
• Pelvic floor spasm

Symptoms of Tight Pelvic Floor Muscles

• Urinary urgency, frequency, retention, difficulty starting urine stream, stopping and starting.
• Constipation, straining and/or pain associated with bowel movement
• Pain during or after intercourse and orgasm
• Pelvic floor spasms
• Vaginal & vulvar burning & discomfort
• Chronic pelvic pain that radiates to the groin, abdomen and back.
• Compression of the pudendal nerve, piriformis syndrome