Skip to Main Content

Center for Pelvic Physiology

(415) 885-7673

The UCSF Center for Pelvic Physiology uses advanced technologies to evaluate patients with fecal incontinence, constipation, pelvic floor disorders, anal or rectal tumors, or anal fistulas. The center was established in 1995.

We provide comprehensive evaluations from a board-certified colorectal surgeon as well as a specially trained nurse. We offer biofeedback therapy as well as innovative surgical treatments for fecal incontinence. Patients who don't respond to conventional care may participate in clinical trials or research projects evaluating experimental therapies.

Our services

Services at the center include:

Anorectal manometry – Measures internal and external sphincter pressures, rectal sensation, rectal volume capacity and rectoanal inhibitory reflex, which can confirm or rule out a diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease

Puborectalis muscle fiber recruitment – Measures neuromuscular activity that helps diagnose pelvic floor dysfunction

Endoanal ultrasound – Evaluates the integrity of the internal and external sphincter (muscle encircling the opening) for incontinence and checks for anal fistula (an abnormal passageway from the anus to the outside of the body)

Biofeedback – Teaches patients to control rectum, anal sphincter and pelvic floor muscles, as a method of treating incontinence or constipation

Referral policy

At this time, we are accepting referrals only from UCSF and MarinHealth.

If you're seeking care for a urinary or gynecologic disorder, please visit the Center for Urogynecology and Women's Pelvic Health. Patients interested in a program to strengthen the muscles that support urinary function and the pelvic organs can read about UCSF's approach to pelvic floor physical therapy.

Doctor referral required

Our locations

Expand Map

    Awards & recognition

    • usnews-neurology

      Among the top hospitals in the nation

    • One of the nation's best in gastroenterology & GI surgery

    Support services

    ""
    Patient Resource

    Case Management & Social Work

    Connect with a team that can help you find resources, solve problems and advocate for you during treatment at UCSF.

    Class

    Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Class

    This eight-week class teaches mindfulness practices that can reduce stress and improve your overall health, such as meditation and body awareness.

    Patient Resource

    Patient Relations

    We welcome feedback about your experience at UCSF Health. Find out how to contact us with comments, questions or concerns.

    Patient Resource

    Spiritual Care Services

    Chaplains representing many faiths are available around the clock to provide support, comfort and counsel to patients, families and caregivers.

    Preparing for your appointment

    What to Bring

    • Photo I.D.
    • Health insurance card
    • Insurance authorization, if required
    • Doctor's referral, if required
    • Recent test results related to your condition
    • List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
    • List of questions you may have
    • Device or paper for taking notes

    International Services

    If you live outside the United States and are coming to UCSF for medical treatment, our patient liaisons can help coordinate all aspects of your visit.

    Learn more

    Interpreting Services

    UCSF offers interpreters in various languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), as well as services for deaf, hard-of-hearing and visually impaired patients.

    Learn more

    Hospital Stays

    Make your hospital stay as smooth and comfortable as possible by finding out how to prepare and what to expect.

    Learn more

    Your Doctor Visit

    See our top 10 tips for making your UCSF doctor’s appointment as stress-free and productive as possible.

    Learn more

    Related clinics

    Center for Colorectal Surgery

    Bakar Precision Cancer Medicine Building

    See both of our San Francisco locations and learn about the center.

    Center for Urogynecology and Women's Pelvic Health

    Berkeley Outpatient Center

    3100 San Pablo Ave.
    Berkeley, CA 94702

    Can't find what you're looking for?

    UCSF Help Center

    (888) 689-8273

    Share