Almost every woman who has experienced vaginal childbirth has sustained some damage to her 'pelvic floor'. This little-known term describes the network of muscles, fascia, and nerves at the base of the pelvis that provides support for the pelvic and intra-abdominal organs (vagina, uterus, urinary bladder, rectum, etc.). This book - the first of its kind - is designed to help both women who already suffer from this 'silent epidemic' and women who wish to assess the risks of vaginal delivery. Dr Magnus Murphy, an obstetrician and gynaecologist who specialises in pelvic floor disorder, and co-author Carol L Wasson give women the vital information they need to understand symptoms, find treatment, and weigh their childbirth options. Complete with glossary, numerous illustrations, and references for further information, this highly useful handbook makes an important contribution to women's health and draws attention to a serious though often neglected problem.