Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles of the pelvis do not work in a coordinated way. Symptoms can include constipation and incontinence. Risk factors for developing this include pregnancy, obesity, and aging. Doctors can use a variety of studies to check the structure and function of the rectum, including colonoscopy and anorectal manometry. Treatment can involve biofeedback, where patients learn to retrain their pelvic floor muscles to have more normal bowel movements.
