Female Pelvis, Nursing Care Plan On Female Pelvis

Female Pelvis

Introduction

The female pelvis is a crucial anatomical structure that plays a vital role in childbirth, reproductive health, and overall physiology. It is different from the male pelvis in several ways, including shape, size, and function. Understanding the female pelvis is essential for nursing and paramedic students, as it provides a foundation for obstetric care, gynecology, and general health assessments.

Anatomy of the Female Pelvis

1. Bony Pelvis

The bony pelvis consists of four bones:

·         Two hip bones (os coxae)

·         Sacrum

·         Coccyx

These bones form a ring-like structure that supports the weight of the upper body and protects the pelvic organs.

2. Pelvic Joints

The main joints of the pelvis are:

·         Sacroiliac joint – connects the sacrum and ilium.

·         Pubic symphysis – a cartilaginous joint between the two pubic bones.

·         Sacro-coccygeal joint – connects the sacrum and coccyx.

3. Pelvic Ligaments

Several ligaments provide stability and support to the pelvis:

·         Sacrospinous ligament

·         Sacrotuberous ligament

·         Pubic ligaments

4. Pelvic Muscles

The pelvic muscles include:

·         Pelvic floor muscles – support the pelvic organs and assist in continence.

·         Gluteal muscles – involved in movement and stability.

·         Hip flexors and extensors – aid in locomotion.

Differences Between Male and Female Pelvis

Feature	Female Pelvis	Male Pelvis
Shape	Wider, shallower	Narrower, deeper
Pelvic Inlet	Oval-shaped	Heart-shaped
Pelvic Outlet	Larger	Smaller
Sacrum	Shorter, wider	Longer, narrower
Pubic Arch	Wider (>90 degrees)	Narrower (<90 degrees)

Functions of the Female Pelvis

1.      Support and Stability – Provides structural support to the body.

2.      Protection of Organs – Shields the reproductive organs, bladder, and intestines.

3.      Childbirth – Facilitates the passage of the baby during delivery.

4.      Attachment for Muscles – Provides a base for muscle attachment.

Pelvic Organs

The female pelvis houses several important organs:

1.      Uterus – A muscular organ responsible for pregnancy and menstruation.

2.      Ovaries – Produce eggs and hormones.

3.      Fallopian Tubes – Transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

4.      Bladder – Stores and excretes urine.

5.      Rectum – Part of the digestive system involved in waste elimination.

Pelvic Floor and Its Importance

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that:

·         Support the bladder, uterus, and rectum.

·         Help control urination and defecation.

·         Play a role in sexual function and childbirth.

Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to:

·         Urinary incontinence

·         Pelvic organ prolapse

·         Sexual dysfunction

Common Pelvic Disorders

1. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

·         Infection affecting the reproductive organs.

·         Causes: STIs, bacterial infections.

·         Symptoms: Pain, fever, abnormal discharge.

·         Treatment: Antibiotics, pain management.

2. Endometriosis

·         Growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

·         Symptoms: Severe menstrual pain, infertility.

·         Treatment: Medication, surgery.

3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse

·         Weakness in pelvic floor muscles causing organ displacement.

·         Causes: Childbirth, aging, obesity.

·         Symptoms: Pressure, discomfort, urinary issues.

·         Treatment: Kegel exercises, surgery.

4. Urinary Incontinence

·         Loss of bladder control.

·         Types: Stress incontinence, urge incontinence.

·         Treatment: Pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes.

Examination and Assessment of the Female Pelvis

Nursing and paramedic students should be proficient in pelvic assessment techniques, which include:

1. Inspection – Checking for asymmetry, skin changes, or swelling.
2. Palpation – Feeling for abnormalities or tenderness.
3. Speculum Examination – Visualizing the cervix and vaginal walls.
4. Bimanual Examination – Assessing the uterus and ovaries.

Importance of Pelvic Health in Women’s Well-being

·         Regular check-ups can help in early detection of diseases.

·         Strengthening pelvic floor muscles can prevent complications.

• Proper hygiene and safe sexual practices reduce the risk of infections.

Conclusion

The female pelvis is a complex and essential structure for reproductive health, childbirth, and overall well-being. Understanding its anatomy, function, and common disorders is crucial for nursing and paramedic students in providing effective patient care. Through proper assessment and preventive measures, many pelvic-related health issues can be managed or avoided.

References

1.       Moore, K. L., & Dalley, A. F. (2018). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. Wolters Kluwer.

2.       Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. (2017). Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. Wiley.

3.       American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2022). Guidelines on Pelvic Health.