Pelvic health clinics, as the name suggests, are medical clinics designed to provide pelvic health care services. Approximately 30% to 40% of women have symptoms of pelvic floor disorders.
And many general clinics are unable to provide adequate treatment for these issues. In fact, lack of specialty providers has led to relatively high misdiagnosis rates of pelvic-related issues.
What’s Next
Pelvic health clinics are part of the Pelvic Care meta trend.
Searches for “pelvic care” have increased by 58% over the last three months.
An openness in talking about sexual and reproductive health has paved the way for advancements in this space.
Which is why we’re seeing rising interest in pelvic care accessories, therapies and medications.
For instance, pelvic floor therapy is a practice that helps alleviate symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction.
Whereas pelvic trainers and pelvic wands are examples of trending pelvic care accessories.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Pelvic health clinics are specialized medical centers that provide care for women and men with pelvic floor disorders. These clinics offer a wide range of services including diagnosis, treatment, and management of pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and other related conditions.
Here are some frequently asked questions about pelvic health clinics:
Question: What is a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: A pelvic health clinic is a specialized medical center that provides care for women and men with pelvic floor disorders. A Pelvic Health Clinic is a specialized medical facility that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the pelvic region. These clinics have a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, who specialize in addressing pelvic health issues in both men and women. They provide comprehensive care for conditions such as pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and postpartum issues.
Question: What services are offered at a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Pelvic health clinics offer a wide range of services including diagnosis, treatment, and management of pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and other related conditions. Pelvic Health Clinics offer a range of services to address various pelvic health concerns. These services may include comprehensive evaluations and assessments, diagnostic tests, individualized treatment plans, physical therapy, specialized exercises, biofeedback, behavioral and lifestyle counseling, medication management, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical interventions if necessary. The clinics aim to provide holistic care and improve the overall well-being of patients experiencing pelvic health issues.
Question: What are some of the common treatment options for pelvic floor disorders?
Answer: Some of the common treatment options for pelvic floor disorders include:
- Medication: This may include antibiotics for infections, anticholinergics for overactive bladder, estrogen for vaginal atrophy or laxatives for constipation.
- Surgery: This may include procedures to repair or support the pelvic organs, such as sling surgery for stress urinary incontinence or hysterectomy for uterine prolapse.
- Physical therapy: This may include exercises to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, such as Kegel exercises or biofeedback.
- Electrical stimulation: This may involve applying mild electrical currents to the nerves or muscles in the pelvic area to improve their function or reduce pain.
- Lifestyle changes: This may include modifying your diet, fluid intake, smoking habits,
weight management or physical activity to reduce stress on the pelvic floor.
Question: What are some common conditions treated at a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: Some common conditions treated at a pelvic health clinic include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and other related conditions.
Question: Who should visit a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Anyone experiencing symptoms or conditions related to the pelvic region should consider visiting a Pelvic Health Clinic. This includes both men and women of all ages. Common indications for seeking care at these clinics include pelvic pain, urinary or fecal incontinence, difficulty with bladder or bowel control, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy-related pelvic issues, postpartum recovery concerns, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the need for specialized pelvic health care.
Question: What are the benefits of visiting a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: Visiting a pelvic health clinic can help you improve your quality of life and prevent further complications from pelvic floor disorders. You can receive a comprehensive evaluation of your pelvic health by a team of experts, including urologists, gynecologists, colorectal surgeons, physiotherapists and nurses. You can also access a range of treatment options that are tailored to your specific needs and goals, such as medication, surgery, physical therapy, biofeedback, electrical stimulation and lifestyle changes.
Question: Can men also benefit from a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Absolutely! Men can experience a variety of pelvic health issues, such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, and prostate disorders. Pelvic Health Clinics cater to both men and women, providing tailored treatments based on the individual’s needs and symptoms.
Question: How are pelvic health issues diagnosed?
Answer: Diagnosing pelvic health issues typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, which may include a pelvic exam. Additional tests, such as imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI), urodynamics testing, or specialized examinations (e.g., cystoscopy, laparoscopy) may also be recommended based on the patient’s symptoms and findings.
Question: What is urinary incontinence?
Answer: Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. It is a common condition that affects both men and women.
Question: Can a Pelvic Health Clinic help with urinary incontinence?
Answer: Yes, Pelvic Health Clinics specialize in the management and treatment of urinary incontinence. They offer comprehensive evaluations to determine the type and cause of incontinence, which can be stress incontinence, urge incontinence, or a mix of both. Treatment approaches may involve pelvic floor muscle training, bladder retraining techniques, behavioral modifications, medication management, biofeedback, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. The clinics work towards improving bladder control, reducing or eliminating episodes of urinary incontinence, and enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
Question: What is pelvic organ prolapse?
Answer: Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition in which one or more of the organs in the pelvis (such as the bladder, uterus or rectum) drops down from its normal position and pushes against the walls of the vagina.
Question: Are there non-surgical treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse?
Answer: Yes, Pelvic Health Clinics offer non-surgical treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the prolapse and the individual’s specific circumstances. Non-surgical options may include pelvic floor muscle exercises, pessary use (a supportive device inserted into the vagina), lifestyle modifications, weight management, and behavioral changes to reduce strain on the pelvic organs. These clinics also provide education on self-care techniques and proper body mechanics to minimize symptoms and slow down the progression of prolapse.
Question: What is chronic pelvic pain?
Answer: Chronic pelvic pain is pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that lasts for six months or longer. It can be caused by a variety of conditions including endometriosis, fibroids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), interstitial cystitis (IC), and others.
Question: How can a Pelvic Health Clinic help with pelvic pain?
Answer: Pelvic Health Clinics employ various strategies to help alleviate pelvic pain. They start with a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of the pain, which can include conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, or interstitial cystitis, among others. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pelvic floor muscle exercises, medications, nerve blocks, trigger point injections, nerve stimulation techniques, or surgical interventions if necessary. The goal is to reduce or eliminate the pain, improve quality of life, and restore normal function.
Question: How are pelvic floor disorders diagnosed?
Answer: Pelvic floor disorders are diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests such as urodynamic testing or imaging studies.
Question: What treatments are available for pelvic floor disorders?
Answer: Treatment options for pelvic floor disorders include lifestyle changes (such as diet and exercise), medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
Question: How long does it take to recover from pelvic floor disorder treatment?
Answer: The recovery time from pelvic floor disorder treatment depends on the type and severity of your condition and the treatment method you choose. Generally speaking,
- Medication: This may take several weeks or months to see the full effect of the medication. You may need to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication if you experience side effects or lack of improvement.
- Surgery: This may take several weeks or months to heal from the surgery. You may need to follow some post-operative instructions, such as avoiding heavy lifting,
sexual activity or driving for a certain period of time. You may also need to take painkillers or antibiotics to prevent infection or complications. - Physical therapy: This may take several weeks or months to complete the physical therapy program. You may need to attend regular sessions with your physiotherapist
or do home exercises on your own. You may also need to monitor your progress and report any changes or problems to your physiotherapist. - Electrical stimulation: This may take several weeks or months to achieve the desired results from electrical stimulation. You may need to use a device at home
or visit a clinic for sessions. You may also need to adjust the intensity or frequency of the stimulation according to your comfort level and response. - Lifestyle changes: This may take several weeks or months to implement and maintain
the lifestyle changes that can improve your pelvic health. You may need to consult
a dietician, a trainer or a counselor for guidance and support.
Question: What are some of the possible complications or risks of pelvic floor disorder treatment?
Answer: Some of the possible complications or risks of pelvic floor disorder treatment include:
- Medication: This may cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, nausea, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, allergic reaction or interaction with other drugs.
- Surgery: This may cause complications such as bleeding, infection, nerve damage, organ injury, anesthesia reaction, blood clots, recurrence or worsening of symptoms or new symptoms such as urinary retention, fecal incontinence or dyspareunia (painful intercourse).
- Physical therapy: This may cause discomfort, soreness, bruising or injury to the muscles or nerves in the pelvic area.
- Electrical stimulation: This may cause discomfort, burning, tingling or irritation to the skin or tissues in the pelvic area.
- Lifestyle changes: This may cause difficulty, frustration, stress or dissatisfaction with adapting or sticking to the lifestyle changes that can improve your pelvic health.
Question: How can I prevent or reduce the risk of developing pelvic floor disorders?
Answer: Some of the ways you can prevent or reduce the risk of developing pelvic floor disorders include:
- Practicing good hygiene and avoiding infections in the urinary tract or genital area.
- Doing regular pelvic floor exercises to strengthen or relax the muscles that support the bladder, bowel and uterus.
- Managing chronic conditions that can affect the pelvic floor such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis or Parkinson’s disease.
- Avoiding habits that can strain the pelvic floor such as smoking, drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, holding urine or feces for too long or pushing too hard when urinating or defecating.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity that can put extra pressure on the pelvic organs.
- Seeking medical help early if you notice any signs or symptoms of pelvic floor disorders.
Question: Where can I find more information or support for my pelvic health issues?
Answer: There are many sources of information or support for your pelvic health issues, such as:
- Your doctor or healthcare provider who can diagnose, treat and monitor your condition and answer any questions you have.
- Your physiotherapist who can teach you exercises and techniques to improve your pelvic floor function and reduce pain.
- Your pharmacist who can advise you on medication use and side effects.
- Your counselor who can help you cope with emotional stress or psychological issues related to your condition.
- Your partner who can support you emotionally and physically and understand your needs and preferences.
- Your family and friends who can offer you practical help and moral support.
- Online resources such as websites, blogs, forums or podcasts that can provide you with reliable information, advice and stories from other people who have similar experiences.
- Support groups or organizations that can connect you with other people who have similar conditions, offer you education, advocacy and resources.
Question: What is involved in a pelvic floor muscle assessment?
Answer: A pelvic floor muscle assessment is a crucial component of a comprehensive evaluation at a Pelvic Health Clinic. During this assessment, a healthcare professional will evaluate the strength, tone, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. It typically involves an internal examination where a gloved and lubricated finger is inserted into the vagina or rectum to assess the muscle function. The assessment helps identify any muscle weakness, tension, or dysfunction that may contribute to pelvic health issues. Based on the findings, a personalized treatment plan, including pelvic floor exercises or physical therapy, can be developed.
Question: How can a Pelvic Health Clinic assist with sexual dysfunction?
Answer: Pelvic Health Clinics address sexual dysfunction by providing comprehensive evaluations and specialized treatment plans. They understand that sexual dysfunction can have physical, emotional, and psychological components, and aim to identify and address these factors. Treatment options may include pelvic floor muscle training, counseling, behavioral therapy, medication management, and the integration of appropriate sexual aids or devices. The clinics work closely with patients to improve sexual function, enhance intimacy, and promote overall sexual well-being.
Question: What is involved in postpartum care at a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Postpartum care at a Pelvic Health Clinic focuses on addressing the physical and emotional changes that occur after childbirth. The clinics provide assessments to evaluate pelvic floor muscle function, abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), and any pelvic organ prolapse. Treatment may involve pelvic floor exercises, scar tissue management, education on safe return to exercise, guidance on breastfeeding positioning, and emotional support. The clinics aim to facilitate postpartum recovery, promote healing, and assist new parents in transitioning to their regular activities.
Question: How can I find a pelvic health clinic near me?
Answer: You can find a pelvic health clinic near you by searching online directories or contacting your healthcare provider for recommendations.
Question: How can I find a reputable Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: To find a reputable Pelvic Health Clinic, consider asking your primary care physician for a referral or searching for clinics in your area that have positive reviews and testimonials. Additionally, you can check if the clinic is affiliated with reputable professional organizations, such as the International Pelvic Pain Society or the American Urogynecologic Society.
Question: Do I need a referral to visit a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: This depends on your insurance plan. Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care physician before you can see a specialist.
Question: How can I schedule an appointment at a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Scheduling an appointment at a Pelvic Health Clinic typically involves contacting the clinic directly. You can find the contact information on their website or by calling their reception. It is advisable to have your insurance information ready, as some clinics may require it during the appointment booking process. The clinic staff will guide you through the necessary steps, such as providing any required medical history or referral documents. They will work with you to find a suitable appointment time and ensure that you receive the specialized care you need for your pelvic health concerns.
Question: What should I expect during my first visit to a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: During your first visit, your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination, including a pelvic exam if indicated. The provider will ask questions about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous treatments you have tried. Based on this information, they will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
Question: How can I prepare for my visit to a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: To prepare for your visit to a pelvic health clinic, you should gather your medical history and records, such as previous tests, surgeries and medications. You should also keep a diary of your symptoms and habits for at least three days before your appointment, such as how often you urinate or defecate, how much fluid you drink, how much pain you feel and how your symptoms affect your daily activities. You should also write down any questions or concerns you have for your doctor.
Question: What can I expect during my visit to a pelvic health clinic?
Answer: During your visit to a pelvic health clinic, you can expect to undergo a thorough physical examination of your pelvic area, including your abdomen, vagina, anus and rectum. You may also need to provide a urine sample or undergo some tests, such as urine analysis, blood tests, ultrasound, cystoscopy or urodynamics. Your doctor will explain the purpose and procedure of each test and answer any questions you have. You will also discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with your doctor and develop a personalized care plan.
Question: How long does it take to see results from pelvic health treatments?
Answer: The timeline for seeing results varies greatly depending on the individual and their specific condition. Some patients may experience improvements within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent treatment. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Question: Can I still see my regular doctor or specialist while attending a Pelvic Health Clinic?
Answer: Yes, you can continue to see your regular doctor or specialist while attending a Pelvic Health Clinic. In fact, it’s important to maintain open communication between all healthcare providers involved in your care to ensure a comprehensive, coordinated approach to your treatment.
Question: Are pelvic health treatments covered by insurance?
Answer: Many insurance providers do cover pelvic health treatments, but coverage may vary depending on your specific plan and the type of treatment required. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider beforehand to determine what services are covered and if any prior authorizations or referrals are needed.
Question: Can I prevent pelvic health issues?
Answer: While not all pelvic health issues can be entirely prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and maintain overall pelvic health. Some preventative measures include:
- Practicing good bathroom habits (e.g., not straining during bowel movements, avoiding constipation)
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Engaging in regular physical activity, including pelvic floor exercises
- Avoiding heavy lifting or activities that strain the pelvic muscles
- Seeking prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms or issues
Question: Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to improve my pelvic health?
Answer: There are several lifestyle changes that can help improve your pelvic health, including maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, practicing good bathroom habits, avoiding constipation, and performing regular pelvic floor exercises. It’s important to discuss these changes with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate strategies for your specific situation.