Pregnancy-related Pelvic Girdle and Low Back Pain

Pregnancy-related Pelvic Girdle and Low Back Pain Low back and pelvic girdle pain is common during pregnancy and can start as early as the first trimester. Causes Changes in hormones during pregnancy cause the ligaments in the pelvis to become slightly more stretchy or lax, which means that the pelvis and spine move a bit…

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic Organ Prolapse A pelvic organ prolapse is a descent of the bladder, uterus or bowel against the vaginal walls or into the vagina. Causes A prolapse can be caused by childbirth particularly if forceps are used; a history of chronic constipation or respiratory illnesses; regular heavy lifting or having a high body mass index…

Dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse)

Dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse) Dyspareunia is the term used to describe pain during sexual activity. This includes pain during arousal, orgasm, intercourse and following intercourse. Causes There are many causes of dyspareunia consisting of physical, hormonal and emotional factors. Some causes include pelvic floor muscle tightness, following surgery or child birth, decreased estrogen levels…

Stress Urinary Incontinence

Stress Urinary Incontinence Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is leakage of urine due to pressure onto the bladder for example when you cough, sneeze or run. It occurs when there is not enough closure of the urethra to counteract the pressure coming down. Causes SUI can occur during pregnancy as there is more pressure on your…

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome Polycystic ovary syndrome often referred to as ‘PCOS’ is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age PCOS causes hormonal imbalances due to increases in androgens and insulin in the body Causes The exact cause of PCOS is currently unknown, PCOS can result from abnormal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO)…

Faecal Incontinence

Faecal Incontinence Faecal or anal incontinence is the complaint of involuntary loss of faeces and wind. Causes Pelvic floor weakness resulting from childbirth, chronic straining, older age and obesity. Another cause of faecal incontinence is loose and runny stools. Faecal incontinence can also be present in people with multiple sclerosis, following a stroke or spinal…

Mastitis and Blocked Milk Ducts

Mastitis and Blocked Milk Ducts Mastitis is described as an infection of breast tissue whereas blocked milk ducts is characterised by inflammation. Blocked milk ducts with or without flu-like symptoms are experienced by 25% of breastfeeding women.  Causes Blocked ducts are caused by a build up of dry milk in the milk ducts which can…

Overactive Bladder in Men

Overactive Bladder in Men A sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control or defer. The sense of urgency can occur with or without leakage of urine; often when on the way to the bathroom. Men may also report having to urinate very frequently throughout the day and night. Causes Contractions of the detrusor…

Post-Prostate Surgery Urinary Incontinence

Post-Prostate Surgery Urinary Incontinence Urinary leakage following radical prostatectomy and other procedures due to prostate cancer and/or an enlarged prostate Causes   The prostate helps to maintain continence by creating closure of the urethra. Once this is removed, the urethra loses some of its closure mechanism, resulting in leakage of urine. During surgery, nerves may…

Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic Headache Cervicogenic headaches (CGH) are associated with musculoskeletal dysfunction arising from the neck. They account for 15- 20% of all headaches and are characterized by muscle imbalance (weakness and tightness) and poor posture. Causes CGH are classically a consequence of poor sustained posture like sitting at a desk for long periods or sleeping on…