The first national pelvic health clinic in Ireland, aimed at treating a range of conditions including bladder and bowel incontinence, was officially inaugurated today in Dublin by Taoiseach Simon Harris. The National Pelvic Floor Health Centre, located at St Michael’s Hospital in Dún Laoghaire, promises to deliver a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patients experiencing complex pelvic floor dysfunction.
This innovative clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, allowing for rapid diagnosis within a dedicated clinical environment. This setup is expected to significantly enhance the patient experience and improve health outcomes for those affected by pelvic health issues.
Pelvic floor dysfunction encompasses various conditions, such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, obstructive defaecation disorder, and dyspareunia. While primarily affecting women—an estimated 23% of whom experience some form of pelvic floor disorder in their lifetime—these issues also impact men. The implications of pelvic health disorders can severely diminish quality of life and may indicate more serious underlying health concerns.
A spokesperson for the hospital highlighted that these disorders often occur in combination; in over 70% of cases, patients present with multiple symptoms that necessitate a collaborative approach to treatment.
During the opening, the Taoiseach remarked, “This dedicated centre provides an innovative approach, establishing new treatment pathways that will significantly reduce treatment and waiting times for individuals suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction. I congratulate everyone involved in delivering this patient-centred service, which profoundly impacts the lives of those who attend.”
Sharon Ryan, the chief executive of St Michael’s Hospital, emphasised the clinic’s importance, stating, “The establishment of a National Pelvic Floor Health Centre marks a significant leap forward in the assessment and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. This dedicated unit fosters better integration of the multidisciplinary team, allowing patients to meet all their healthcare providers in one location.”
The establishment of the clinic has already yielded positive results, with waiting times reduced by 12 months for some patients. The number of individuals attending the Pelvic Floor Service saw a remarkable increase from 271 in 2021 to 683 in 2022—a 152% rise. The pelvic health physiotherapy service has also expanded its capacity, providing an average of 56 appointments weekly, compared to just 12 per week from 2013 to 2022.
The National Pelvic Floor Health Centre is the only multidisciplinary clinic in Ireland dedicated to the assessment and management of pelvic floor dysfunction. The expert team comprises internationally trained colorectal surgeons, urogynecologists, specialist physiotherapists, and clinical nurse specialists who collaborate to provide comprehensive care.
Funding for this vital facility was secured through the HSE’s National Women’s and Infants Health Programme and the Department of Health. The clinic features four clinical rooms, a waiting area, and administrative support, representing a total investment of over €1 million to enhance patient care for those with pelvic health issues.
