Purpose of review: We sought to provide a review of the recent literature regarding the prevalence and epidemiological trends in pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence. We also examined the current trends in surgical treatment for these disorders and discuss future care needs.
Recent findings: Approximately, one quarter of all women suffer from at least one or more PFDs. Urinary incontinence represents the most common PFD with an estimated prevalence of 15-17%, whereas fecal incontinence affects, approximately, 9% of adult women. POP is more difficult to assess with prevalence estimates ranging from 3 to 8%. Surgery for PFDs is common as 20% of women undergo stress urinary incontinence or POP surgery over their lifetime. As the aging population grows, the number of women with PFDs will increase substantially and the demand for care for these disorders will continue to grow through the year 2050.
Summary: PFDs are a significant public health issue and they negatively impact the lives of millions of adult women. The projected increase in the number of women affected by PFDs over the next 40 years will create increased demand for providers properly trained in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.