Pelvic Hearth Disorders Affect One-Third Of US Women

AORN Journal,  Nov, 2007  

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At least one-third of the women in the United States (ie, about 35 million) wilt be treated for a pelvic health condition by the age of 60, according to a June 19, 2007, news release from the National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC). A new report from the NWHRC revealed information about four pelvic health conditions: menorrhagia (ie, heavy menstrual bleeding); uterine fibroids; stress urinary incontinence (SUI); and pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Researchers estimate that even more women are affected by these disorders, but these women often are misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed and remain untreated because they do not realize their symptoms are abnormal or because they are too embarrassed to talk to their physician about them. Data indicate that 50% to 75% of SUI cases and 80% to 90% of POP cases Likely are unreported. Yet pelvic health conditions can seriously affect quality of life, with symptoms ranging from sexual dysfunction, discomfort, and abdominal pain to complications with pregnancy and fertility, anemia, low self-esteem, and depression.

By age 50, more than 70% of Caucasian women and 80% of African-American women have developed uterine fibroids. In 2005, a primary diagnosis of uterine fibroids or menorrhagia accounted for 44% of all hysterectomies performed (ie, about 600,000 per year). This rate has remained constant for 25 years despite the increased availability of minimally invasive options. Researchers recommend that rigorous studies be conducted to assess the viability and effectiveness of treating pelvic disorders with minimally invasive procedures, such as endometrial ablation for heavy menstrual periods.

Baby Boomer women hardest hit by pelvic health conditions, says new report [news release]. Washington, DC: The National Women's Health Resource Center; June 29, 2007.

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