Front and rear: the pelvic floor is an integrated functional structure

Area of Science:

• Pelvic floor anatomy and functional disorders.

Background:

• The pelvic floor is a functional unit, not a static structure.
• Dysfunctions can manifest as overlapping voiding, sexual, genital, and defecatory issues.
• Sexual abuse can lead to urologic, genital, and digestive symptoms as a signature of trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elaborate on a holistic vision of pelvic floor function, integrating sexuality.
• To propose hypotheses regarding the basic causes and treatments of various pelvic floor pathologies.
• To emphasize the need for interdisciplinary awareness among medical specialists.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing knowledge on pelvic floor function and dysfunction.
• Exploration of the connection between trauma and pelvic floor symptoms.
• Development of a holistic model for understanding pelvic floor disorders.

Main Results:

• Pelvic floor dysfunctions are interconnected and can stem from various sources, including trauma.
• A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Recognizing the pelvic floor as an integrated unit can reveal unsuspected pathologies.

Conclusions:

• A holistic understanding of the pelvic floor, including its role in sexuality, is crucial.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration among urologists, gynecologists, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons is necessary.
• Addressing the root causes, including psychological trauma, is vital for symptom resolution.