?

[hazellin31]

This might be a stupid question, but as far as PFD, do you have to ask to get tested for it, or would the uro already know if you had it already? I'm just really confused on what it is and how you know if you have it?? :bonk:

[ICNJess]

You could bring it up to your uro and ask to get tested for it. If you have symptoms of PFD, you should discuss it with your uro or PCP. The test for PFD is called Biofeedback. They put a probe in your vagina and test how your muscles are contracting. There are exercises you can do, if you have PFD, that can strengthen your pelvic floor.

[trytosmile]

I'm with you on this PFD. I just had this mentioned to me today. I have read about it in the past and refreshed myself this afternoon and I can relate to it all. I was going to discuss with my urologist on my next visit as I am a regular. He has become my best friend...lol.

I was referred to this article today. Maybe will help

http://www.ic-network.com/iclifestyles/april02.html

[Iris5]

You can get tested via probe, or an experienced person (such as Dr or physical therapist) can test you by feeling the muscles and trigger points internally. Your current doctor may not be looking for it, or may not know how to look. My gynecologist, urologist, and 1st urogynecologist all missed it. Luckily, through research, I was able to find a PT that specialized in PFD. I called her and asked what doctors she worked most closely with, went to those doctors, and that's how I finally got my diagnosis of PFD (in addition to IC which I had been previously diagnosed with.)

[kelly McC]

My Gyn and several urologist missed Pfd with me. I just was diagnosed about 3 months ago from pelvic pain specialist. I was then sent to Pt so far not alot of relief and causes me pain but I am not giving up yet
Good luck,
Kelly

[IWin]

My doctor did a uroflow test and found my flow to be slow, and stopped and started again. Also, I retained some. Then he touched the muscles through my vagina. It didn't actually hurt, but I could feel the pressure. One place he touched made me feel as if I suddenly had to pee. He said I should have not felt anything except maybe just a light touch, I think he said like a feather (?) touching there. Something like that, anyway.

Neither of my first two uros mentioned PFD. I'm going to the one now at the suggestion of my second uro. I think it's one of those things which is not generally known by all uros.....like IC?

[desolationangel]

my urologist (luckily) is a member of the pelvic floor association or something. he was able to suspect pfd just by feel, and a physical therapist found it by feeling trigger points.

[bunnymoomoo]

really urologists should be more familiar with the pelvic floor, but often are not. since PFD and IC have very similar symptoms it would be excellent if urologists were able to recognize distinguishing factors of each, but many urologists don't even know much about IC and that is specifically dealing with the bladder. @_@ sometimes PFD can be detected by an internal pelvic exam; running the finger along a specific set of muscles of the pelvic floor. it can also be detected by biofeedback. i think symptoms is the first step to diagnosis. here's a link to an article by Dr. Moldwin; it's very long, but if you scroll down you'll see a section describing a possible IC patient vs. a possible PFD patient:

http://www.ichelp.org/FeatureArticles/MoldwinPelvicFloor.html

often if you cannot get diagnosed by your urologist or gynecologist, a physical therapist who specializes in PFD and is also knowledgeable about IC can help you. for insurance purposes it is best to get a referral/prescription. also, it is possible for someone to have either IC or PFD OR BOTH.

~ best wishes and good luck ~
bunny

[hazellin31]

bunnymoomoo that article was awesome, thank you!

[Iris5]

IWin -

I also used to have problems with flow and retention. After 5 months of physical therapy, these symptoms, along with other IC symptoms, has greatly improved. You may also want to read the guest lecture by Rhonda Kotarinos on this site.