Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to problems with the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, or prostate, and bowel. These issues can cause pelvic pain, urinary or bowel symptoms, and sexual pain. MPM provides diagnosis-first evaluation and coordinated treatment with pelvic floor therapists and other specialists.
What is pelvic floor dysfunction?
The pelvic floor can become overactive and tight, underactive and weak, uncoordinated, or painful due to trigger points and nerve sensitivity. These patterns often overlap with hip, spine, or abdominal drivers.
What are the causes?
- Muscle overactivity from guarding after pain or injury
- Weakness and poor coordination after childbirth, surgery, or deconditioning
- Nerve irritation involving pudendal or sacral branches
- Posture and movement patterns that overload the pelvis
- Coexisting conditions such as endometriosis, bladder pain syndrome, or low back pain
What are the signs and symptoms?
- Deep pelvic or perineal pain
- Pain with intercourse, tampon use, or pelvic exams
- Urinary urgency, frequency, hesitancy, or incomplete emptying
- Constipation, straining, or pain with bowel movements
- Tailbone, groin, or inner thigh pain
- Flares with sitting, cycling, or prolonged standing
What are the risk factors?
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Pelvic or abdominal surgery
- Chronic pelvic pain conditions
- Low back, hip, or sacroiliac joint problems
- High stress, poor sleep, or deconditioning
How is it diagnosed?
We start with detailed history and pain mapping, then a focused exam that screens the hips, spine, and abdominal wall. When appropriate, we coordinate a pelvic exam with trained pelvic floor therapists or your gynecology or urology team. Imaging or nerve testing is used selectively when it will change care.
What are possible treatment options?
- Pelvic floor physical therapy with biofeedback and home programs
- Myofascial and trigger point treatments, including targeted injections when indicated
- Image-guided nerve blocks for specific neural pain patterns
- Hip and spine stabilization programs to unload the pelvis
- Bowel and bladder retraining and behavioral strategies
- Pain psychology support to reduce flare intensity and fear of movement
- Coordinated care with gynecology or urology when structural issues are present
Are there preventative steps?
- Posture and body mechanics that reduce strain
- Regular mobility and strength conditioning
- Bowel and bladder habits that avoid excessive straining
- Early attention to new pelvic symptoms
What are the risks if it is left untreated?
- Persistent pain and worsening pelvic function
- Urinary or bowel symptoms that limit daily life
- Sexual pain that affects intimacy and mood
- Central sensitization that prolongs recovery
Are there other related conditions?
Endometriosis, Pelvic Pain, Bladder Pain Syndrome, Hip and Low Back Pain, Pudendal Neuralgia, Abdominal Wall Pain.
Key takeaways
- Pelvic floor dysfunction is common and treatable.
- A coordinated, stepwise plan with therapy and targeted interventions can restore function.
- Addressing hip, spine, and abdominal contributors improves results.
Recommended next steps
- Request Appointment
- Bring prior notes or imaging if available and complete our intake and pain map.
- We will confirm the pattern, set goals, and begin a plan you can follow.
