May is National Women’s Health Month – a time for women to prioritize their health and wellness. One specific health issue for women that’s becoming more popular on social media: pelvic floor health. There is a lot of information out there, and we’re sorting through it all in this Medical Minute.
With more than 30 years of experience as women’s health provider, Craig Hanson, MD Obstetrics/Gynecology at OhioHealth Van Wert says from his perspective — women wait an average of ten years before they seek help for their symptoms of pelvic floor health issues.
“Pelvic floor disfunction is anything from urinary leakage, to prolapse, to muscle weakness, and urologic disorders,” explains Dr. Hanson. “They can be brought on by back disorders, herniated discs, and just general problems like obesity or poor muscle tone.”
Pelvic floor disorders are common – at least one in three women will experience one at some point in their lives.
“A lot of people assume that nothing can be done for this,” Dr. Hanson says. “To help, there are a combination of things. First, physical therapy.”
Dr. Hanson cautions – there is a lot of misinformation on social media about this topic. The best source to get help or information from is a certified pelvic floor physical therapist.
“They can help a lot. Especially if you’ve had a nine-pound baby or larger – you may want to consider seeing one sooner rather than later,” Dr. Hanson says. “No matter how you delivered, you can benefit from pelvic floor therapy.”
Dr. Hanson explains it’s mandatory in Europe for women to receive pelvic floor therapy for the first three months after childbirth.
Natalie Koester is a physical therapist and the director of rehabilitation services at OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center. She explains it’s important for physical therapists to get to know the patient and knowing their deficits, and building a plan that’s specific for them. She also cautions against relying on information you find online.
“It’s important to know the source and understand their credibility,” she says. “For specialized therapy, we do years’ worth of training to learn and to learn it really well and then to be able to provide patients the best care.”
The OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center provides additional rehab services — beyond those seeking help for pelvic floor disorders. To learn more visit: Rehabilitation Services | OhioHealth Van Wert Health Center.