Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and pelvic floor dysfunction are two conditions that often overlap, yet the connection between them is often overlooked. For those struggling with chronic digestive symptoms, recognizing how these IBS and pelvic floor dysfunction overlap can be an important step towards finding relief.
What is IBS, and what does it have to do with the pelvic floor?
IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by a group of symptoms rather than a single identifiable cause. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Bloating
- Diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both
- Changes in stool consistency or frequency
IBS is typically categorized into subtypes. IBS sufferers may be diagnosed with:
- IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant)
- IBS-C (constipation-predominant)
- IBS-M (mixed type)
While IBS does not cause structural damage to the intestines, it involves altered gut-brain signaling, motility changes, and increased sensitivity in the digestive tract.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. These muscles must coordinate properly to allow for normal elimination, sexual function, and core stability.
When the pelvic floor muscles do not relax and contract as they should, known as pelvic floor dysfunction, individuals may experience:
- Difficulty starting or completing a bowel movement
- Straining
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
- Pain during or after bowel movements
These overlapping symptoms can cause confusion when diagnosing the conditions.
One condition, or IBS and pelvic floor dysfunction?
Because of the similarities in symptoms, pelvic floor dysfunction is sometimes misdiagnosed as IBS, especially when presenting with constipation. Many individuals diagnosed with IBS also have an underlying pelvic floor dysfunction that contributes to their symptoms.
The issues involved in these two conditions is heavily related to coordination between the gut and pelvic floor. A normal bowel movement requires coordination between intestinal motility, rectal sensation, and relaxation of the pelvic floor. In IBS, motility and sensitivity are often altered; in pelvic floor dysfunction, the mechanical process of movement is affected. When both are present, symptoms may be more severe and harder to get relief from.
Individuals suffering from this combination may be experiencing the two conditions feeding off of and exacerbating each other. This may lead to:
- Increased pelvic floor muscle tension
- Poor coordination of muscle relaxation
- Development or worsening of pelvic floor dysfunction
This creates a cycle of discomfort and constipation which leads to straining, increasing pelvic floor tension and worsening ongoing constipation.
Both conditions also involve dysregulation of the nervous system, with stress, anxiety, and trauma affecting them. The symptoms are very real, but may be informed by these factors.
Healthline talks more about addressing the two together here.
When to suspect pelvic floor dysfunction after an IBS diagnosis
If you have been diagnosed with IBS, especially IBS-C, and continue to experience these symptoms, pelvic floor dysfunction may be a contributing factor:
- Ongoing constipation despite diet changes or medication
- Straining
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
- Difficulty passing stool
- Pain with bowel movements
These symptoms indicate that gut motility isn’t the only factor at play – the pelvic floor muscles are likely involved.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can provide relief
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction. Therapy focuses on retraining the pelvic floor muscles to properly relax and contract during bowel movements and may combine gentle manual therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, breathwork, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques as well as education.
While diet changes and/or medication may be indicated to treat IBS, pelvic floor therapy works seamlessly with these therapies by addressing the mechanical and muscular component of bowel function.
You don’t have to suffer with IBS
If you have been living with IBS symptoms that don’t fully respond to other treatments, it may be time to explore whether pelvic floor dysfunction is part of the picture.
Your symptoms may not be getting better because they may not simply be caused by the digestive system. Evaluating and treating the pelvic floor muscles can make all the difference.
Body Restoration Physical Therapy in Roslyn Heights, NY specializes in treating the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, providing relief from a variety of uncomfortable conditions. Contact us today to learn if pelvic floor physical therapy is right for you, or to book your first appointment.