Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

You might be feeling self-conscious, even embarrassed, to ask for help right now. Or even know the term for what you’re feeling in your pelvic area — but we’ve got the expertise and the understanding to help you through this.

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles and ligaments supporting your pelvic organs are too tight— or too loose — to function properly. You may notice heaviness in the vagina or problems with bowel, bladder and/or sexual function. These symptoms can make you self-conscious, but you don’t have to endure them. Cleveland Clinic London has compassionate, knowledgeable consultants who can help you get back to being yourself again.

To get there, you’ll want the best possible care from experienced and highly qualified gynaecologists who understand what you’re going through. We provide a sensitive, respectful environment that makes it easier to discuss your concerns with us. At Cleveland Clinic London, you’ll have access to range of therapies that ease the impact of symptoms on your daily life.

Highlights of our programme include:

• Expertise: Highly qualified consultant gynaecologists, all of whom are leaders in the field, guide your care. They have trained in the U.K.’s top teaching hospitals and offer decades of experience. We’re able to successfully treat patients with a range of symptoms — from mild to severe or even debilitating (you can’t even do everyday things).
• Team approach: For issues affecting the bowels or bladder, gynaecologists collaborate with other consultants, including colorectal surgeons, upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgeons, gastroenterologists and urologists. We regularly communicate during team meetings, planning every step of your evaluation and treatment. This collaborative approach is not widely available in the U.K.
• Advanced testing: An accurate diagnosis is improved by advanced testing so that you can receive effective therapies. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art radiology scans and studies that pinpoint issues with bladder or bowel function.
• Support: Our nurse specialist coordinates all necessary services, including advanced testing. They answer your questions between appointments, so you feel confident about your care and know what to expect.

Our services help you get relief from the many ways pelvic floor dysfunction can affect your body. You receive exceptional care for symptoms such as:

• Stress incontinence.
• Pelvic pain and painful intercourse.
• Urinary incontinence.
• Urinary retention.
• Constipation and anismus (dyssynergic defaecation).
• Faecal bowel incontinence (leaks).
• Overactive bladder.

Efficient Pelvic Floor Disorder Treatment

Here’s what you can expect when you turn to us for pelvic floor disorder care:

1. Assessment: You’ll start by getting a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam. We also want to know your story and we’ll listen carefully as you describe your symptoms. This information enables us to determine the next steps of your assessment.
2. Testing: You may need advanced investigations, such as an ultrasound, MRI proctogram (a series of images showing your bowel movements) or a urodynamic study to assess bowel or bladder function. These tests help us determine what’s causing your symptoms and how severe the issue is.
3. Treatment recommendations: Consultants from many specialities discuss findings and provide treatment recommendations. We offer a range of treatments from pelvic floor physiotherapy (physical therapy) and non-surgical therapies to complex minimally invasive reconstructive surgery.

Meshless Surgery for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

If surgery is appropriate, you are in capable hands. Cleveland Clinic London consultants use the latest methods and perform a high volume of procedures. You’ll benefit from the latest state-of-the-art laparoscopic and robotic surgical theatres and equipment. These techniques and technologies enable us to deliver precise care through tiny incisions, leading to an easier recovery.

For pelvic organ prolapse (organs that slide out of their natural position), we carry out repair procedures using meshless techniques. We use stitches and healthy tissue to place organs in the correct position and secure them in place.

After surgery, your recovery starts in our intensive care unit or ward, depending on your medical history and complexity of surgery. Nurses and on-site consultants provide attentive monitoring. Our nurse specialist checks in on you periodically once you get home.

You’ll return to our clinic for a follow-up visit a few weeks later. Your comfort and peace of mind matter, so we encourage you to contact us if you have questions.

Gynaecology Self-Pay Services

Contact us or call +44 80 0098 1747 for more information about pelvic floor disorder services. 

We make it easier to access expert care in the U.K. Read more about payment information, including options for self-pay and private medical insurance. If you are coming to us from another country, learn more about coordination available through Global Patient Services.