Pelvic Floor Program

Pelvic conditions such as pain or incontinence can really affect your quality of life. Not only do these conditions cause physical discomfort, but many sufferers lose interest in social activities or intimacy, which in turn can have a negative effect on relationships. But there are treatment options available for those who suffer from pelvic floor issues.

Mission's Pelvic Floor Program includes a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses and physical therapists who are specially trained specifically in pelvic floor issues. We are the only hospital system in Western North Carolina offering a range of subspecialists that include gynecology, urogynecology and urology. We also have a dedicated team of nurses trained in the care of pelvic floor surgical patients.

If you would like more information on the Pelvic Floor Program at Mission Hospital please call 828-213-8244.

Sometimes the pelvic problems are more complex and need additional care. At Mission Hospital, we have a wide breadth of clinical expertise and when necessary our team works closely with specialists and subspecialists from other departments at Mission. For instance, some pelvic disorders such as urinary incontinence can be affected by neurological diseases, in which case, our Pelvic Floor team works closely with Mission's neurology department to ensure that our patients are receiving the most comprehensive quality care possible.

Who is Impacted?
Pelvic conditions are much more common than many people realize.

Almost 50% of all women will experience urinary incontinence during their lifetime
An estimated 8-10 million women are currently coping with mild to moderate incontinence issues
As many as 40% of women over the age of 18 suffer from pelvic organ prolapse
Approximately 25-45% of women suffer from some form of pelvic floor issue and that rate increases with age:
- 20-30% of young women suffer
- 30-40% of middle aged women suffer
- Up to 50% of older women suffer

While women are much more likely to experience urinary incontinence, men can also be affected.

Risk Factors
There are a number of risk factors that can contribute to such incontinence or pelvic issues, including:

Vaginal childbirth
Obesity
Diabetes
Hysterectomy
Smoking
High-impact exercise and heavy lifting
Some medications

Conditions and Symptoms
Problems with the pelvis and the pelvic floor can result in a wide range of conditions including loss of urine and bowel control, pelvic pain, prolapsed or "falling" pelvic organs and lower back pain. If you are suffering from any of the following symptoms or have concerns about yourself or a loved one, you can use this self assessment provided by us, to start a discussion with your physician. Please bring this assessment to your next appointment concerning these issues.
Common symptoms:

Have trouble making it to the toilet on time
Lose urine when you cough, laugh or exercise
Make frequent trips to the bathroom
Feel pelvic pressure or discomfort

Contact & Referral
Diagnosis and treatment options are vast and continually expanding to offer patients numerous nonsurgical and surgical options. The plan of care is developed in collaboration with our multi-disciplinary team.

If you find that you have any of the conditions or symptoms listed above talk to your personal care provider about what is right for you. If you would like more information on the Pelvic Floor Program at Mission Hospital please call 828-213-8244.

Download and print the Pelvic Floor Program referral form. (pdf)