Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of firm and thick muscles found at the base of the pelvis. They provide support to the pelvic organs by forming a hammock-like structure from the pubic bone all the way across to the tailbone.

In women, the pelvic floor supports the following organs: the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum.

What Happens When the Pelvic Floor Malfunctions?

Cases of pelvic floor dysfunction typically present with urinary symptoms, bowel issues and sexual dysfunction.

This is because the pelvic floor muscles are typically responsible for:

Controlling the release or delay of urine and faeces
A part of sexual function (e.g. voluntary squeezing of the pelvic floor)
Supporting the developing baby during pregnancy
Controling the pelvic muscles to relax during childbirth

Dr Michael Wong is an experienced urologist of over 30 years, with a subspecialty interest in female urology. Contact us for a detailed diagnosis and treatment.

Types of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

When the Pelvic Floor Muscles are Too Weak

The more common type of pelvic floor dysfunction, a weakened pelvic floor is typically caused by:

Pregnancy and childbirth
Frequent heavy lifting
Being overweight
Chronic cough
Ageing and menopause

When the Pelvic Floor Muscles are Too Tight

This occurs when the pelvic floor muscles tense up and are unable to relax; and can be caused by:

Frequent working out and holding on to one’s core muscles
Frequently holding on to one’s bladder or bowels
Birth trauma and scar tissue

Signs to Look Out For:

You may experience some of the following: urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, constipation, straining to empty bowels, difficulty initiating urination, lower back pain, pain during sexual intercourse, pelvic muscle spasms, and more.

How Do We Treat This?

While treatment is personalised to the individual, they typically involve a combination of <span class="font-semibold">pelvic floor muscle training exercises, biofeedback, lifestyle changes, dietary changes, injections and surgery</span> as a last resort.

As treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction is so specific and personalised, it is key to seek the advice of an experienced specialist skilled in female urology.

Dr Michael Wong

Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology),FICS (USA),FRCS (Edinburgh),M Med (Surgery),MBBS (Singapore)

With over 30 years of experience, Dr Michael Wong is a reputable urologist of international standing. He is particularly passionate about the detection and treatment of female urological conditions; and was the first in Singapore to be USA Fellowship-Trained in Female Urology and Neurology. Over the years, Dr Wong has kept himself actively involved in leadership roles in renowned urological organisations around the world.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr Wong

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Our clinic provides specialised and dedicated care for women experiencing urological problems, helping them regain confidence and comfort in their lives.

For further enquiries, please contact our specialist clinic today

(65) 6838 1212

(65) 6838 1218

3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09,
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510