Paediatric incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction

Author(s): D. Sandalcidi - Pages: 5–8

Abstract

Pelvic health physiotherapists rarely treat children with bladder and bowel dysfunction, and pelvic pain. However, although over 90% of children have achieved daytime bladder control by 5 years of age, the remainder still experience urinary leakage during their waking hours. Furthermore, up to 30% of 4-year-olds suffer from urinary incontinence at night. Forms of bowel dysfunction, such as constipation, can also contribute to urinary leakage or urgency. Paediatric pelvic floor dysfunction is also common, and this condition can have a significant impact on the quality of life of children and their families. There can also be negative health consequences for the lower urinary tract if the condition is left untreated. Functional pelvic floor muscle exercises combined with urotherapy represent a safe, inexpensive and effective treatment option for children with paediatric voiding dysfunction. The issue of whether bladder and bowel problems cause psychological problems, or vice versa, is addressed.

Keywords: bowel dysfunction, constipation, paediatric patients, pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence.