Contact The Pelvic Floor & Continence Center
St. Joseph's/Candler has a dedicated Pelvic Floor & Continence Center to help women with these sensitive health concerns.
Effective treatment for pelvic floor disorders
Expert care for conditions like urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic floor disorders and other issues causing incontinence affect millions of people, yet many suffer in silence due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that these conditions are just a normal part of aging. However, help is available, and treatments today are more effective and minimally invasive, improving patient recovery.
At our Pelvic Floor & Continence Center, we provide expert care for conditions like urinary and bowel incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, ensuring every patient receives a personalized treatment plan for the best possible outcome. With guidance from your physician, you have options—so you don’t have to endure discomfort or inconvenience alone.
Understanding pelvic floor disorders
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition that affects women and occurs when the muscles and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs weaken, allowing organs like the bladder, uterus or rectum to shift out of place. This can create a bulge or herniation, causing discomfort and interfering with normal function.
Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
- A sensation of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area
- Difficulty urinating or frequent urinary tract infections
- Pain or discomfort during physical activity or intimacy
For mild cases, Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor. However, if symptoms affect your daily life, surgical options may provide lasting relief. Discussing symptoms with a gynecologist is the first step toward finding the best treatment plan.
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of bladder control. It can be mild, such as occasional leakage, or more severe, impacting daily activities and confidence. The two most common types are:
- Urge Incontinence: A sudden, intense need to urinate, often leading to leaks before reaching a bathroom.
- Stress Incontinence: Leakage triggered by laughing, sneezing, coughing, or physical activity due to weakened bladder support.
Treatment Options for incontinence include the following:
- Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
- Medications to reduce bladder spasms (for urge incontinence)
- Surgical procedures for severe stress incontinence
Our physicians understand the challenges that come with pelvic floor disorders and offer individualized solutions to help you regain confidence and control over your body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do pelvic floor disorders happen?
Pelvic floor disorders occur when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken or are damaged. This can result from pregnancy, childbirth, aging, menopause, chronic constipation or repeated heavy lifting. Genetics may also play a role, as some women have naturally weaker connective tissue.
How can I prevent pelvic floor disorders?
While some risk factors, like aging and genetics, cannot be changed, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, practicing Kegel exercises, avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements and managing chronic coughs or heavy lifting that may weaken pelvic support structures.
Do I need surgery for pelvic organ prolapse or incontinence?
Not always. Many women benefit from non-surgical treatments like pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle modifications or medications. However, if symptoms severely affect daily life and non-surgical treatments aren’t effective, surgical options may be recommended to restore pelvic support.
Is urinary incontinence just a normal part of aging?
No. While incontinence is more common as people age, it is not an inevitable part of getting older. Many treatment options exist to help improve bladder control, from exercises and medication to surgical procedures. No one should ever feel like they have to live with incontinence—there are solutions available.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience frequent bladder leakage, a feeling of pelvic pressure, or difficulty with urination or bowel movements, it’s time to seek medical advice. The sooner you speak with a physician, the sooner you can find relief through treatment options tailored to your needs.