Do you experience uncomfortable pressure in your pelvic area, unexpected leakage, or feel like something is “falling out”? Pelvic floor disorders are common, yet many women hesitate to seek help due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that these symptoms are just a normal part of aging.
At Sweetwater OB/GYN Associates, our board-certified OB/GYNs, Dr. Shannon Crowe, MD, FACOG, MSCP, and Dr. Bryan Blonder, DO, FACOG, have over 26 years of experience diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders with compassion and expertise. As the first OB/GYNs in the Sugar Land area, we’ve built our reputation on providing personalized care that addresses your unique needs in a safe, supportive environment.
What Are Pelvic Floor Disorders?
Pelvic floor disorders occur when the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support your pelvic organs become weakened or damaged. Your pelvic floor acts like a hammock, holding up your bladder, uterus, and rectum. When this support system fails, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms.
Common pelvic floor disorders include:
- Pelvic organ prolapse: When one or more pelvic organs drop from their normal position
- Dropped uterus (uterine prolapse): The uterus descends into or protrudes out of the vagina
- Fallen bladder (cystocele): The bladder bulges into the vaginal wall
- Urinary incontinence: Loss of bladder control
- Fecal incontinence: Difficulty controlling bowel movements
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Pelvic floor disorder symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of your condition. You may notice a feeling of heaviness or pressure in your pelvis, a visible bulge in your vaginal area, or difficulty emptying your bladder completely. Many women experience urinary leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising. Some women also report lower back pain, painful intercourse, or a sensation that something is falling out of the vagina.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent your condition from worsening and significantly improve your daily comfort.
What Causes Pelvic Floor Disorders?
Several factors can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor. Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth are among the most common causes, as they place significant stress on the pelvic muscles and tissues. Aging and menopause also play a role, as declining estrogen levels can weaken supportive tissues. Chronic coughing, heavy lifting, obesity, and prior pelvic surgeries can further increase your risk.
Treatment Options
Treatment for pelvic floor disorders depends on the type and severity of your condition, as well as your overall health and lifestyle goals. Conservative approaches often include pelvic floor physical therapy, which strengthens the muscles through targeted exercises, and lifestyle modifications such as weight management and avoiding heavy lifting.
For moderate to severe cases, your provider may recommend a pessary—a supportive device inserted into the vagina to help hold pelvic organs in place. When non-surgical options don’t provide adequate relief, minimally invasive surgical procedures can repair the damaged tissues and restore normal anatomy. Our physicians are highly skilled in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques that promote faster recovery and less discomfort.
Why Choose Sweetwater OB/GYN Associates for Pelvic Floor Disorders in Sugar Land, TX?
When you choose Sweetwater OB/GYN Associates, you gain access to more than just medical treatment—you receive comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to your individual needs. Our practice includes board-certified OB/GYNs and nurse practitioners who bring decades of combined experience to your care. We offer a full range of gynecology services, including minimally invasive surgery, ensuring you receive the most advanced treatment options available.
Find Relief From Pelvic Floor Disorders Today
Living with a pelvic floor disorder can affect every aspect of your life, from your physical comfort to your emotional well-being. But with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can experience significant improvement and regain control over your body and your life.
Don’t let embarrassment or uncertainty keep you from getting the help you deserve. Contact Sweetwater OB/GYN Associates in Sugar Land, TX at (281) 242-1400 to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you feel like yourself again.