Urinary incontinence or urination and sexual problems are a consequence of pelvic floor dysfunction. Drs. Rioja, specialists in Urology and members of Top Doctors, explain the treatment of this pathology.
What exactly is pelvic floor pathology?
The pelvic floor is a structure composed of muscles, fascia and ligaments (collagen) that close the bony opening of the pelvis. It is of great anatomical importance, as it supports the abdominal and pelvic structures and organs. Also from the functional point of view, since it participates in essential functions such as urination, urinary continence, defecation and sexual activity. The deterioration and aging of these structures, their weakening and loss of tone generates, on the one hand, anatomical alterations such as prolapse of the pelvic organs and functional alterations: urinary incontinence, disorders in urination and bowel function, as well as problems of a sexual nature.
Who usually suffers from pelvic floor pathology and with what symptoms?
It is a pathology preferably in women. The main reason is that, because childbirth occurs through these structures, they can be damaged and trigger these problems. As regards symptoms, prolapse causes local discomfort, a feeling of heaviness when walking or standing and the functional symptoms already mentioned, especially in relation to urine leakage and bowel and sexual dysfunction.
How can it be prevented?
It is very important to be aware during pregnancy and after childbirth to recover the pelvic floor muscles that may have been damaged. Rehabilitation is essential, as well as avoiding overweight and sedentary lifestyles.
What diagnostic methods are necessary?
The diagnosis of pelvic floor pathology is clinical, by physical examination of the pelvis and perineum. Nowadays Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging informs us of muscular and ligamentous lesions in a more real and objective way. On the other hand, functional urodynamic studies are essential, which allow us to assess the function of the urinary organs and sphincters.
What innovative urological treatments do you apply in your clinic?
In mild cases, rehabilitation and physiotherapy treatment is very effective, both from a preventive and curative point of view. However, more advanced cases require restorative surgery. We have long experience in treating pelvic floor injuries and treatments have evolved. We have to think that we must repair damaged, injured and aged tissues, constituted, primarily, by muscle and collagen of the fasciae. To achieve a correct repair, we must replace the damaged structures with polypropylene meshes that are integrated into the organism with the production of healthy collagen. And, in very severe cases of prolapse, laparoscopic surgery is the ideal option with better results.