It is a common issue that is rarely discussed. Yet, one in three women has a pelvic floor disorder, such as chronic constipation, urinary or bowel incontinence or sexual dysfunction. There are many contributing factors to PFDs, such as genetics, race, injury or childbirth, but many women lack the general knowledge about their conditions and are unsure of when to seek a professional for help.

Meadow Good, DO, FACOG, a UF Health urogynecologist and chief of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, is focused on helping women understand their options to improve their quality of life. Good is board-certified in two specialties: obstetrics and gynecology, and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery.

“If your symptoms are bothering you, seek treatment and get educated about your options,” Good said. “These issues are not a normal part of aging.”

Good built a specialized team of professionals who are dedicated to compassionately treating women with PFDs. The team includes Ruchira Singh, MD; Monica Major-Harris, ARNP, a women’s health nurse practitioner; Eliza Rivera, PT, DPT, WCS, a board-certified pelvic floor doctor in physical therapy; and two urogynecology nurse care coordinators.

Currently, female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, a division of the department of obstetrics and gynecology, is performing more pelvic floor repair surgeries than any other robotic-assisted procedures at UF Health Jacksonville.

The pelvic floor is made up of the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel and rectum, as well as the tissues and muscles surrounding and connecting these organs. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when an organ drops, or weakens, and needs repair. Prolapse repair surgery, called sacrocolpopexy, is a minimally invasive, elective procedure.

Patients who qualify for sacrocolpopexy are encouraged to try noninvasive treatments. Noninvasive recommendations depend on a patient’s overall health and the condition and severity of her symptoms. Treatment options may include behavioral modification, medication, change in diet and exercises, such as Kegels.

“Pelvic floor exercises using proper technique are essential to overall health and can reduce or eliminate urine leakage,” Good said.

Good also recommends using a medical-grade silicone pessary device. The device is fitted and inserted into the vagina by a medical professional to provide support. For some, this is a short-term solution leading to surgery. Other patients use them long term, as they may completely relieve symptoms. They are also an option for women who have other health conditions that prevent pelvic floor surgery.

“My goal is to help women feel good about themselves, so they can live the lifestyles they deserve,” Good said. “They should be confident in their daily activities.”

If you are a woman experiencing symptoms related to a pelvic floor disorder, visit UFHealthJax.org/female-pelvic-medicine for more information or call 633.0411 to schedule an appointment with a UF Health urogynecologist.