Common Or Normal? | Understanding The Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition that affects a substantial portion of the population, yet many people either don’t recognize its symptoms or believe they are told the symptoms are common and therefore “normal.” But just because these symptoms are common, doesn’t mean they are normal, and they can be addressed through with compassionate, one-on-one care. A practical tool like the Cozean Pelvic Dysfunction Screening – a quick self-assessment consisting of 10 questions – can help you identify if your symptoms are “normal” or if you’d benefit from working with a pelvic floor specialist.

What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support vital organs like the bladder, uterus, and bowels. When these muscles don’t work as they should, you may experience a range of symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and functional challenges. While this dysfunction is common, with 25% of women in the U.S. reporting at least one symptom, it’s crucial to understand that these symptoms aren’t normal and are treatable with proper care.

Pelvic floor issues don’t just develop overnight. They are often related to various life events, physical conditions, or past injuries—some of which might go unnoticed for years.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in several ways, often overlapping with other health concerns, making it harder to pinpoint. Here are 10 common signs that could indicate pelvic floor dysfunction:

  1. Pelvic pain in areas such as the genitals, bladder, or pubic region that registers as more than a “3” on a 1-to-10 pain scale.
  2. A history of falls onto the tailbone, lower back, or buttocks, even from childhood.
  3. Urinary symptoms like:
    • Accidental leakage
    • Difficulty emptying the bladder
    • Pain or burning during urination
    • Frequently feeling the need to void
  1. Frequently waking up at night to urinate—not just once, but two or more times.
  2. Pressure or a sensation of pelvic organs “falling out.”
  3. Chronic pain in the lower back, hip, groin, or tailbone, or a history of sciatica.
  4. Bowel symptoms such as:
    • Difficulty controlling bowel movements
    • Straining or pain during bowel movements
    • Feeling like your bowels aren’t completely empty
  1. Discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
  2. Sexual activity exacerbates other pelvic symptoms.
  3. Prolonged sitting increases discomfort or other issues.

When you experience three or more of these symptoms, it’s likely you are dealing with pelvic floor dysfunction.

The Cozean Pelvic Dysfunction Screening—A Simple, Effective Tool

Identifying pelvic floor dysfunction may seem daunting, but the Cozean Pelvic Dysfunction Screening simplifies the process. This straightforward, two-minute self-assessment walks you through the questions outlined above. By reviewing the self-assessment questions, you can gauge whether your symptoms align with a broader issue. We encourage you to take the first step toward understanding your condition from there.

The screening isn’t just convenient—it’s empowering. Many individuals suffer needlessly because they assume their symptoms are just a natural part of life or aging. This tool challenges that misconception and helps you prioritize your well-being.

Why Seeking Help Matters

What we accept as “common” isn’t always “normal.” Pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly affect your quality of life—limiting mobility, interfering with daily activities, and even straining relationships. The good news is that, with the right treatment, these symptoms can improve or resolve entirely.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists are specialists trained to evaluate and address these issues. They use non-invasive therapies to strengthen, relax, or retrain pelvic floor muscles, tailoring treatments to your unique needs.

A Compassionate, Personalized Solution

At Physio One Physical Therapy, we believe in taking a compassionate and whole-person approach to care. We offer specialized, one-on-one treatment sessions designed to address pelvic floor dysfunction and improve your quality of life. You don’t need to suffer in silence—help is available, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

With locations in Clay, Dewitt, Liverpool, and Fairmount, our team is ready to help you take back control of your health and well-being.

Contact Us Today

Your well-being deserves attention and care. If you resonate with any of the symptoms mentioned or score “YES” on three or more questions in the Cozean Screening, reach out to Physio One Physical Therapy. We’re happy to offer guidance and solutions tailored to you.

Here’s how you can get in touch with us:

Prioritize your health today—a more comfortable and active life is within reach!

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