Pelvic Floor Reconstruction

Pelvic floor reconstruction is usually performed in women with pelvic floor disorders such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Pelvic floor disorders affect up to 25% of women aged 30 – 70 globally and are caused by weakened pelvic muscles or tears in the connective tissues holding the pelvic organs (bladder, bowels and reproductive organs) in place. A pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles are unable to hold the organs in place and they drop downwards into the vagina. Pelvic floor dysfunction is commonly caused by strain during previous childbirths, ageing or an increase in abdominal pressure.

Depending on the severity, pelvic floor dysfunction can present a variety of symptoms:

• Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control or urine leakage when coughing, sneezing or exerting yourself)
• Bulge or sensation of heaviness in the vaginal area
• Pelvic pressure
• Pain during sex
• Lower back pain

Treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction and uterine prolapse includes lifestyle management measures such as exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles, inserting a pessary to support the prolapsed tissue, or removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) for severe prolapse cases.