Pelvic Floor Re-education

Book excerpt: Pelvic Floor Re-education encompasses a variety of techniques for increasing the strength of, and control over, the pelvic floor muscles. These techniques are now emerging as an effective and viable alternative to surgery in the treatment of urinary incontinence and related conditions. This volume presents a reasoned, scientific approach to the use of pelvic floor re-education. Starting with the latest theories on anatomy, pathophysiology and possible causes of pelvic floor damage, the text then describes the importance of pelvic floor evaluation in determining the type of treatment required. A number of re-education techniques are assessed including isolated muscle exercise, vaginal cones, biofeedback control and electrical stimulation. Recent research work is also reviewed which allows the reader to evaluate the different modalities advocated in the management of pelvic floor dysfunction.