Sitting on a Golf Ball & Other Unusual Pelvic Floor Symptoms
The pelvic floor muscles are fascinating. Where else in the body do skeletal muscles so strongly impact organ function? Honestly, it's what makes it incredible – and what makes those of us who specialize in it always craving more and more knowledge! The pelvic floor muscles are unique – being internal, and sitting where they do around the bladder, rectum, prostate, uterus, and more – they can lead to some pretty unique symptoms. Here are a few common ones we see in the clinic:
A golf ball in the rectum
I can't tell you how often we hear this one! It's actually so common that it's described this way even in research studies! What causes it? Well, the pelvic floor muscles run around the rectum. The puborectalis in particular loops around the rectum creating the angle from the rectum to the anus (which is crucial for emptying the bowels). When those muscles are tense or tight, they will take up space in the rectum, which can lead to a sensation of "something is there." (and the brain then says... "golf ball?").
A charlie horse in the vagina or perineum
Charlie horses are annoying – and we've all had them. But, a charlie horse in the pelvic floor? It's next level. The pelvic floor muscles have 3 layers and sit within the pelvis, running from the pubic bone to the tailbone and wrapping around the vagina (if you have one), urethra and anus. When these muscles spasm, they can cause a feeling of a charlie horse or deep cramp anywhere around their location.
Do I have a UTI?
Because these muscles run around the urethra and base of the bladder, tension and irritation in the muscles can impact the bladder and lead to bladder symptoms. Increased urinary urgency and frequency are some of the most common symptoms we'll see. We also hear people complain of difficulty starting a urine stream or a sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
Decreased sensation in the bedroom.
The pelvic floor muscles are involved in sexual arousal, helping to pull blood into the clitoris and the penis. They also contract during orgasm. If the muscles are weak, too tense, or just not functioning optimally, sexual health can be impacted. People will often complain that their body feels less sensitive, arousal is diminished, and orgasm may be more difficult.
Eating all the fiber, but still struggling with constipation.
This one can be so frustrating! The muscles of the pelvic floor run around the opening of the anus and rectum and contract to hold in stool, lengthening to allow for bowel movements. If the muscles are too tense, or not coordinating well, this can be impacted, leading to difficulty emptying the bowels.
These symptoms may seem unusual when you first hear about it – but once you understand the pelvic floor muscles, they all start to make sense! If this sounds like you, just know that you're not alone!! Pelvic floor problems impact so many people –and help is available! Respond to this e-mail if you want to start a conversation– we're here for you!