Pelvic Floor Disorder Research Paper

Page Title: Pelvic Floor Disorder in Older Women |Julie Wiebe PT
Meta Description: Pelvic floor disorders are common but shouldn’t be considered ‘normal among older women. Learn more about this condition and how physical therapy helps.

Pelvic Floor Disorder is Common, But Not ‘Normal’ in Older Women

Approximately 25% of all women suffer from at least one or more pelvic floor disorder (PFD). This data was published in the “Epidemiological Trends and Future Care Needs for Pelvic Floor Disorders” report posted on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website. However, this condition is rarely discussed or shared by the female population despite the millions who are affected. Experts believe one reason why this is so is because …show more content…
The Merck Manual website defines it as “a network of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that act like a hammock to support the organs of the pelvis: the uterus, vagina, bladder, urethra, and rectum.” A PFD develops when the tissues or ligaments are stretched or damaged, or when the muscles become weak. This may cause the pelvic organs or small intestines to drop down and push against the walls of the vagina. In severe cases, the organs protrude all the way through the opening of the vagina. This is called pelvic organ prolapse.

Two other types of pelvic condition are urinary incontinence and bowel incontinence. Those who have this problem experience unwanted passage of urine or fecal matter. Sometimes, they also have difficulty with voluntary urination or bowel movements. As it turns out, the expression “I laughed so hard I peed in my pants” can actually be literal for some. But it is no laughing matter for those who suffer from incontinence. This usually causes embarrassment and discomfort, and prohibits one from enjoying everyday activities.

Females of any age and in any life stage can experience pelvic floor disorders. A combination of factors contribute to the development of …show more content…
Older women and pelvic floor disorders

Transitioning into your golden years involves preparing for inevitable changes, such as finding the ideal respite care services and dealing with a changing body. As females age, the supporting structures in the pelvis tend to weaken. As a result, PFDs are more likely to develop. This possibility further increases when you have had several vaginal deliveries or a hysterectomy.

According to WebMD, because aging increases the likelihood of developing pelvic floor conditions, researchers project that it is going to be a bigger concern for society. The 2012 U.S. Census Bureau projects that the current 43.1 million population of those aged 65 or older will increase to 83.7 million by 2050. Those aged 85 or above will grow from 5.9million to 18 million. And more than half of seniors will be women.

Treatment for pelvic floor problem

Aside form stigma, another reason why PFDs aren’t talked about that much is because some people with the condition believe there is nothing they can do about it. Others learn to accept it as a normal part of motherhood and aging. Luckily, that isn’t

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