Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

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The Diagnosis of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Unfortunately PFD can mimic many other medical conditions, so a detailed medical history and physical exam need to be carried out. Patients with pelvic floor dysfunction frequently have trigger points, small tender, knot-like regions in these specific muscles. These trigger points can often be detected during examination.

What to expect for the evaluation of PFD

  1. A detailed history and physical examination. This is the most important part of your visit, providing an insight into other tests that may be needed; and, most importantly, what therapies will likely be helpful. Patients have often been evaluated by multiple clinicians in the past. Records from these encounters should be obtained and brought with you on your first visit to our Center. These records may include information that will greatly facilitate your care. Typical records may include: office notes, operative reports, pathology reports, urodynamic evaluation (bladder function testing), urinalysis reports, urine culture reports, urine cytology reports, CAT scans, MRIs, etc.
  2. Laboratory exams. These may include a urinalysis, a urine culture, blood tests, and in some instances, a urine cytology (a test for cancer cells in the urinary tract).
  3. Other testing. Further testing depends upon the information obtained through your history, physical examination and initial laboratory testing. Other recommended tests may include:
    1. Testing for sexually transmitted diseases.
    2. Assessment of bladder emptying. This is usually performed with a simple ultrasound (Bladder Scan) in the office.
    3. Urodynamic evaluation. This is a sophisticated test that evaluates your bladder's function and may also provide information about your pelvic floor muscles.
    4. Cystoscopy. Cystoscopy can provide information about inflammation, scar tissue, cancers, bladder stones, or prostate enlargement that might be present and mimic the symptoms of PFD.This procedure involves passing a flexible "telescope" into the bladder through your urethra (the tube that brings urine out of your body).
    5. Ultrasound exams. May include ultrasound of the pelvis, prostate, and/or kidneys.
    6. CAT scans or MRI of abdomen and/or pelvis