Pelvic Floor Health Often Overlooked
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — When we talk about health, mental well-being usually takes center stage. But there’s another area that’s often missed—pelvic floor health, relevant for everyone, regardless of gender.
Health professionals define pelvic floor health as the strength and flexibility of the muscles that support your bladder, bowels, and, for women, the uterus.
Issues related to pelvic floor health can include symptoms like urinary or stool leaks, among others.
A clinic in Little Rock aims to change this narrative, urging both men and women in Central Arkansas to focus on their pelvic health.
Dr. Sally Oliphant from Arkansas Urogynecology and Women’s Health pointed out that pelvic floor issues frequently get overlooked.
“Urinary problems are often brushed aside by women, who might think they’re just a normal part of aging or childbirth,” she stated.
Her clinic is actively addressing this by employing advanced technology and treatment options.
“We utilize a cystoscopy tower which allows us to perform diagnostic examinations of the bladder using a camera. This also helps us administer treatments for urinary incontinence, including Botox injections into the bladder, all done through a cystoscope. We can also treat stress incontinence in the urethra,” Dr. Oliphant elaborated.
The Mayo Clinic reports that around one in three women over 20 might experience some form of pelvic floor dysfunction—though it’s likely the actual figure is higher since many cases go unreported.
“I think a common habit among women is being rushed. When they go to the bathroom, they try to empty their bladder quickly, which isn’t great for bladder health,” Dr. Oliphant noted.
Instead, she recommends taking your time and paying attention to what your body is telling you, including when to seek medical guidance.
“Neglecting the health of the vagina, bladder, and pelvic floor is a mistake,” she cautioned.
For those interested in learning more about the Arkansas Urogynecology and Women’s Health clinic, more information is available through their website.
