Many people live with ongoing pelvic pain, urinary issues, or discomfort without realizing that the root cause may be related to the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. When these muscles become weak, tight, or uncoordinated, they can contribute to chronic pain and bladder dysfunction. A pelvic floor exam is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help identify these issues and guide effective treatment.
At Art of Medicine Direct, we understand how frustrating and disruptive these symptoms can be. If you’ve been struggling with persistent pelvic discomfort or bladder problems, a thorough evaluation may provide answers and relief.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor and Its Role in Health
The pelvic floor muscles form a sling-like structure at the base of the pelvis. These muscles are responsible for supporting the bladder, bowel, and uterus (in women) or prostate (in men). They play a crucial role in:
Urinary control
Contracting and relaxing to allow proper bladder function
Bowel movements
Assisting in the passage of stool and preventing incontinence
Sexual function
Contributing to arousal, orgasm, and overall pelvic sensation
Core stability
Working with the abdominal and back muscles to support posture and movement
When the pelvic floor muscles are not functioning correctly, it can lead to a variety of issues, including:
Pelvic pain
A dull ache, sharp pain, or pressure in the pelvic region
Urinary urgency and frequency
Feeling the need to urinate frequently, even when the bladder isn’t full
Urinary leakage
Incontinence when sneezing, coughing, or exercising
Painful intercourse
Discomfort during or after sexual activity
Constipation or difficulty emptying the bladder
Struggling to fully empty the bowels or bladder
Lower back or hip pain
Persistent discomfort that may be linked to muscle tightness or dysfunction
Many of these symptoms overlap with other medical conditions, which is why a pelvic floor exam is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
What to Expect During a Pelvic Floor Exam
A pelvic floor exam is a specialized evaluation designed to assess the strength, flexibility, and coordination of the pelvic muscles. At Art of Medicine Direct, we take a patient-centered approach, ensuring that you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.
Step 1: Medical History and Symptom Discussion
The first step is a detailed conversation about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. This includes discussing:
- The nature and duration of your symptoms
- Any history of pregnancy, childbirth, or pelvic surgery
- Bowel and bladder habits
- Any previous treatments or therapies you’ve tried
- Your daily activities and any movements that trigger discomfort
Step 2: External Examination
A healthcare provider will assess your posture, core strength, and any areas of external tenderness. Tight or weak muscles in the abdomen, lower back, or hips can contribute to pelvic dysfunction.
Step 3: Internal Examination (If Needed and With Consent)
For a more thorough assessment, an internal exam may be recommended. This is done with your full consent and in a private, supportive environment.
For women, this involves a gentle vaginal exam to check muscle strength, coordination, and areas of tension.
For men, the exam may include a rectal assessment to evaluate the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the prostate.
The provider will guide you through exercises like contracting and relaxing your pelvic muscles to evaluate how well they function. If you are uncomfortable with an internal exam, other diagnostic methods may be used.
How a Pelvic Floor Exam Helps Diagnose and Treat Chronic Pain and Bladder Issues
A pelvic floor exam is key to identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms. Once an assessment is complete, a personalized treatment plan can be created. Depending on the findings, treatment options may include:
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
A trained therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen weak muscles or relax overly tight ones. Techniques may include:
Biofeedback therapy
Using sensors to help retrain muscle control
Manual therapy
Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Designed to improve coordination and function
Lifestyle Modifications
Certain habits can worsen pelvic floor dysfunction, including poor posture, heavy lifting, or high-impact exercise. Adjusting daily activities can reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Bladder Training
For those experiencing urinary urgency or frequency, bladder training can help retrain the body’s signals and improve control.
Medications or Other Treatments
In some cases, medications may be recommended to address underlying inflammation, muscle spasms, or infections. If needed, further medical interventions can be discussed.
Who Should Consider a Pelvic Floor Exam?
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a pelvic floor evaluation may be beneficial:
- Persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Urinary incontinence or frequent urges to urinate
- Pain during intercourse or after sexual activity
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
- Chronic lower back or hip discomfort without a clear cause
Many people hesitate to seek help for pelvic issues, assuming they are a normal part of aging or something they must live with. The reality is that many of these problems can be effectively treated with the right approach.
Breaking the Stigma Around Pelvic Health
Pelvic floor issues affect both men and women, yet they often go undiagnosed due to embarrassment or a lack of awareness. Open conversations about pelvic health can help remove the stigma and encourage more people to seek care.
At Art of Medicine Direct, we prioritize patient comfort and respect throughout the entire evaluation process. Our goal is to provide answers, relief, and a path to better health without unnecessary procedures or medications.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you’ve been dealing with chronic pain, bladder issues, or unexplained pelvic discomfort, a pelvic floor exam may provide the insight needed to improve your quality of life. Contact Art of Medicine Direct to schedule an evaluation and start your journey toward better pelvic health.
No one should have to live with ongoing pain or discomfort when solutions are available. A simple exam could be the first step toward lasting relief.
