Synopsis: 17

PROTECT YOUR PELVIC HEALTH

Dr. Vinita Soni

Vydehi Super Specialty Hospital

Bangalore, Karnataka

‘Pelvic health’ is an umbrella term used to describe the optimal functioning of the pelvic region, including the bladder, bowel, reproductive organs and pelvic floor muscles (PFMs). Pelvic health conditions include urinary and faecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain with urinary incontinence being the most prevalent among them.

Pelvic floor disorders affect more than two hundred million people worldwide according to the World Health Organisation. The estimated worldwide prevalence of Pelvic floor disorders among men varies from 11% to 21%, while in women it affects 25% to 45% with prevalence peaking around midlife years of 50 years and above.

Population studies confirm that pelvic disorders among women is strongly associated with female gender, age, first pregnancy, increased parity and reduced quality of life.

Recent International Consultations on Incontinence and Cochrane reviews have recommended pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) as an effective first-line of conservative management for women with PFM disorders. Pelvic floor muscle training involves graded program to increase maximal muscle strength and endurance.