Pharmacologic Considerations for the Pelvic Health Provider

Pharmacologic agents are often a first line treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction. Most patients seeking treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction are prescribed one or more medications. Medication side effects can contribute to or, be the cause of genitourinary issues. It is important that health care providers are knowledgeable about the effects of medications and, how the medication itself could be contributing to the patient’s complaints.

This remote learning course will discuss medications used for the treatment of pelvic floor and genitourinary conditions as well as common side effects of medications routinely used for pelvic floor dysfunction. This course will be taught by live instructor via Zoom. Medications for constipation and GI dysfunction, as well as pelvic pain conditions such as Vulvodynia, Chronic Prostatitis, and Endometriosis will be covered. The course will also cover medications and side effects in Gender-Affirming Care for patients who are transitioning.

The results from a 2017 study by Araklitis, Thiagamoorthy, Hunter, Rantell, Robinson & Cardozo showed limited knowledge among health care providers regarding anticholinergic load which can impact cognitive functioning in the elderly. Anticholinergic medications are often prescribed for urinary dysfunction. Understanding medications used for genitourinary issues will enable the provider to educate patients about medication effects and, effectively communicate with other health care providers regarding medication choices for their patients.

Prerequisites:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos

Audience:

This continuing education seminar is targeted to any licensed health care professional. Content is not intended for use outside the scope of the learner's license or regulation. Physical therapy continuing education courses should not be taken by individuals who are not licensed or otherwise regulated, except, as they are involved in a specific plan of care.

References:

Araklitis, G., Thiagamoorthy, G., Hunter, J., Rantell, A., Robinson, D., & Cardozo, L. (2017). Anticholinergic prescription: are healthcare professionals the real burden? International Urogynecology Journal, 28(8), 1249–1256. https://doi-org.akin.css.edu/10.1007/s00192-016-3258-3