Pelvic floors disorders are defined are a group of conditions that affect the pelvic floor, including bladder and bowel function and pelvic organ prolapse. The pelvic floor includes the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue in the lower part of the pelvis.
In Australia, 50% of women will suffer with the symptoms of at least one form of pelvic floor complaint in their lifetime and 1 in 5 women will undergo some form of reconstructive pelvic floor surgery. Despite such prevalence, pelvic floor disorders often go undiscussed and untreated for many years. Social stigma surrounding continence and sexual function limits the willingness of many women to come forward and over time if untreated, symptoms can have a very detrimental effect on quality of life.
This presentation aims to give you a whistle-stop tour of Urogynaecology as it stands in 2018 including the current definitions, incidence and prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, risk factors, and the evidence for primary and secondary prevention. The management of pelvic floor disorders across the spectrum of age and parity will be covered, including care of the antenate, postnate and post-menopausal woman.
The cornerstone of best Urogynaecology practice is collaborative multi-disciplinary care. This presentation will expand on the roles of the various health care providers to ensure the comprehensive management of women and their ability to access conservative, medical and surgical care as needed.