Summary:

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lara Harvey to discuss pelvic floor dysfunction—what it is, how it’s diagnosed, and the full spectrum of treatment options available. We review the basics of pelvic floor anatomy and walk through what to expect during a pelvic exam, including how clinicians assess muscle tension, coordination, and pain. Dr. Harvey then breaks down evidence-based treatments, from pelvic floor physical therapy to medications and procedural interventions like trigger point injections and pudendal nerve blocks.

Outline:

• Review of pelvic floor anatomy and function and what to expect with the pelvic floor exam
• The role of pelvic floor physical therapy, expectations and recommendations
• Other treatments for pelvic floor dysfunction include a variety of medications and procedures
• Medications:
  • Vaginal medications
  • NSAIDs
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Neuromodulators
• Procedures:
  • Bilateral pudendal nerve blocks
  • Pelvic floor trigger point injections with Botox or steroids and considerations for each of these medications
  • Goal of the injections is generally a more temporary pain relief, can assist with progressing with pelvic floor PT
• Resources:
  • American Physical Therapy Association, International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS) patient resources, https://www.voicesforpfd.org/ by AUGS