It is estimated that as many as 1 in 3 women experience pelvic pain, organ prolapse, incontinence, or other pelvic health-related conditions.
"When pelvic floor muscles and the accompanying support structure become weak or compromised, women can experience challenges that affect bodily function and quality of life," said SSM Health Urogynecologist Dr. Bruce Drummond.
The good news is that there are many ways SSM Health can help.
SSM Health uses a multidisciplinary approach to pelvic health, with physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, and physical therapists working together to provide comprehensive care.
"Many of my patients say that they didn’t seek help right away because they were under the impression pelvic health challenges were ‘just a part of life’ that they had to accept," Dr. Drummond said. “That doesn’t have to be the case."
SSM Health teams offer a variety of individualized treatment options for pelvic floor disorders, which may become apparent through symptoms such as:
- Incontinence: experiencing accidental urinating or bowel leakage.
- Prolapse: the descent of pelvic organs.
- Overactive bladder: the frequent need to urinate, having bladder pressure, or urgency when urinating.
- Emptying disorder: when one has difficulty urinating or having a complete bowel movement.
- Pain or sexual disfunction: can greatly affect day-to-day life and overall well-being.
At SSM Health, we believe in treating every patient as a whole person with compassionate care. Although diagnosing pelvic floor disorders can be complex, our team always takes the time to listen and complete a thorough examination.
We also understand that some women may feel embarrassed to bring up symptoms of pelvic floor disorders.
"I can assure you that our team has seen these symptoms many times before in women of all ages," Drummond said. "There is no need to shy from asking for help."
Women who are experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor disorders should speak with their primary care provider for initial guidance, as there are many non-surgical and surgical options that can help. Your primary care physician may also refer you to a specialist, like Dr. Drummond, for advanced care.
Find a provider or learn more about the full spectrum of women’s health services at SSM Health.
