A PFD occurs when the muscles or connective tissues of the pelvic area weaken or are injured. The most common PFDs are urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. PFDs are more common among older women.
NICHD supports and conducts research on PFDs. For example, NICHD-supported studies evaluate therapies and improve ways to measure treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
General Information
A PFD occurs when the pelvic muscles and connective tissue weaken or are injured.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of PFD. They may include a frequent urge to urinate, leaking urine, and a feeling of heaviness in the vagina.
Many factors can contribute to the development of PFDs, including childbirth, older age, and certain types of surgery.
A healthcare provider may be able to diagnose a PFD with a physical exam. In other cases, a woman may see her doctor about symptoms she is experiencing.
Treatments for PFDs may be nonsurgical, surgical, or a combination. However, some women do not need treatment for their PFD.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on PFDs and on conditions associated with pelvic floor disorders.
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to PFDs.
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