Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

The pelvis contains a bowl of muscles that support the bowels, uterus, bladder, prostate and rectum. Muscles in the pelvic floor can become tight or loose, and dysfunction of their strength and function is associated with a long list of symptoms for women, but sometimes also for men.

Pelvic pain can develop when pelvic floor muscles are too tight, and can lead to painful intercourse, vulvar pain, constipation, low back pain, and pain with urination or urinary leakage. These symptoms of pelvic pain can be attributed to short, tight, tender pelvic floor muscles, often with myofascial trigger points. Myofascial pelvic pain describes pain within the pelvic floor musculature, connective tissue of the pelvis, and the associated fascia.

However when pelvic floor muscles are too weak, this leads to pelvic organ prolapse, or when the rectum, bladder, or uterus starts to fall into the vaginal canal. Women with pelvic organ prolapse often have symptoms of urinary or fecal leakage as well.

Management of myofascial pelvic pain syndrome often is best addressed through pelvic floor physical therapy, pelvic floor muscle training, and bladder and bowel lifestyle modification guidance. Biofeedback, electrical stimulation, trigger point injections into the muscles, topical hormone and medication cream, laser and heat therapies, as well as oral medications are also options for pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms.

Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction in women: Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction in men:
Pain with intercourse Testicular ache
Back pain Pain with erections or ejaculation
Constipation Low back pain
Urinary leakage, urgency, or nighttime urination Constipation
Vulvar pain or irritation Urinary changes
Difficulty with sexual arousal

Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction in women:

  • Pain with intercourse
  • Back pain
  • Constipation
  • Urinary leakage, urgency, or nighttime urination
  • Vulvar pain or irritation
  • Difficulty with sexual arousal

Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction in men:

  • Testicular ache
  • Pain with erections or ejaculation
  • Low back pain
  • Constipation
  • Urinary changes

Patient Testimonials

I cannot say enough about the practice of Dr. Serena McKenzie. Dr. McKenzie has helped get my life back! I have never felt so comfortable with a practice, they make you feel like a person and not a number. The support and direction they give is amazing! I have been a patient of Dr. McKenzie for over 4 years and during those years, I have lost close to 100 lbs, became physically and mentally healthy, and have the confidence to continue a healthy lifestyle – thanks to this practice and Dr. McKenzie!!

HC, 34 years old

I have been coming to Dr. Serena McKenzie for about five years and I absolutely love her and the Whole Life Medicine office. I love that the office is clean and organized and the office staff are always warm and welcoming. Regarding Dr. McKenzie, I think she is amazing. She’s very loving and caring, listens to various issues and concerns going on in my life, and always provides honest feedback and healthy solutions.

KS, 30 years old

Whole Life Medicine’s main appeal over other healthcare clinics is that I can have a choice to use alternative medicine. I like the idea of a holistic approach first, but the option of more conventional medicine if necessary.

Anonymous survey respondent

I really appreciate a PCP who takes time to address my issues, listen to me, and give me suggestions for both natural and conventional options.

Anonymous survey respondent

Whole Life Medicine’s main appeal over other healthcare clinics is that I can have a choice to use alternative medicine. I like the idea of a holistic approach first, but the option of more conventional medicine if necessary.

Anonymous survey respondent

Dr. Serena did a great job and was patient with me. She was understanding and non judgmental to some of the topics discussed.

Anonymous survey respondent

Dr Serena McKenzie has always been outstanding in listening to the patient and working with them to meet their specific needs. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience but also the personable side which is often missing in today’s medical system.

Ian T.

Amazing care, I have hormonal imbalances, Menopause side effects and Dr McKenzie’s figured out the right dosage and hormones for me! Very happy with her care.

Maria P.

Dr. Serena McKenzie

Dr. Serena McKenzie, ND, IF, NCMP has been working in healthcare since 1995. She is an evidence-based, holistic primary care physician and an expert in sexual medicine, menopause and pelvic floor dysfunction.

NAMS Menopause Practitioner

Contact Us

13126 120th Ave NE
Kirkland, WA 98034

Phone: (425) 398-9355
Fax: (833) 905-2316
Email: info@drserena.com
We serve patients Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

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