Ignored Pelvic Floor Problems: How to Break the Silence

Doctors may not necessarily be intentionally ignoring pelvic floor problems. There can be various reasons why some individuals feel their concerns are not adequately addressed.

7 reasons your concerns are ignored

• Lack of Awareness: Some doctors may not be fully aware of the range and impact of pelvic floor problems or the best treatment approaches.
• Stigma: You might feel embarrassed discussing pelvic floor issues. The discomfort can make it challenging for both you and your doctor to address these concerns openly.
• Time Constraints: Medical appointments are often limited in time. Doctors may prioritize addressing more urgent or visible health issues over pelvic floor problems.
• Misdiagnosis or Underdiagnosis: Doctors may misdiagnose or underdiagnose pelvic floor issues, leading to incomplete or inadequate treatment. This goes hand in hand with the time constraints.
• Limited Training: Some healthcare providers may not have received comprehensive training in pelvic floor health. This can result in a lack of expertise in diagnosing and treating these issues.
• Communication Barriers: Effective communication between doctors and you is essential. If you don’t express your concerns clearly or doctors don’t ask the right questions, issues can go unaddressed.
• Healthcare System Challenges: In some healthcare systems, there may be limitations in access to specialized care or pelvic floor physical therapy, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

5 ways to be heard

To ensure that your pelvic floor problems are not ignored, you can take the following steps:

• Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms openly with your healthcare provider, and if necessary, seek a second opinion.
• Seek Specialists: If you suspect pelvic floor issues, consider consulting a specialist, such as a urogynecologist or a pelvic floor physical therapist, who can provide more specialized care.
• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your condition, potential treatments, and available resources.
• Educate Yourself: Understanding your condition and available treatments can help you have more informed discussions with your healthcare provider.
• Consider Support Groups: Joining support groups for individuals experiencing similar issues can provide valuable information and emotional support

It’s important to remember that many healthcare providers are committed to their patients’ well-being! However, if you feel that your concerns about pelvic floor problems are not being adequately addressed, seeking a healthcare professional with expertise in this area can be a valuable step towards finding the help you need. If you are being ignored with your problems, look for a new doctor or physical therapist.