Latest news with #dysfunction
ABC News
23-07-2025
- Politics
- ABC News
Nedlands election delayed after council sacked, as mayor Fiona Argyle says she was rolled
Nedlands council will remain in the hands of commissioners for longer than anticipated following the sacking of its mayor and elected councillors, after the election of a new council was delayed. Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley has appointed three commissioners to run the council after last month sacking all of the elected councillors, including the mayor Fiona Argyle. The move came after four councillors resigned within hours of each other, leaving the council without a quorum, with Ms Beazlley describing the situation as an "embarrassing" saga of "dysfunction and disunity". The council was already under investigation by the Department of Local Government over claims of governance breaches, and Ms Beazley said that probe was expected to conclude in coming weeks. Local government elections are slated to be held in October this year, but Ms Beazley said on Wednesday the Nedlands election would be rescheduled for March, to give the commissioners time to investigate the issues leading up to the sacking. Former WA Planning Commission chair David Caddy, a former Nedlands deputy mayor, has been appointed chair of the council, assisted by commissioners Bianca Sandri and Cath Hart. Mr Caddy said he and his fellow commissioners were "committed to bringing trust and integrity back into the governance system in the City of Nedlands." "We have a huge task ahead of us," he said. Mayor Fiona Argyle told the ABC she was not under investigation from the department and believed she had been targeted for political purposes. "I was elected mayor two times by a popular vote of the community and have ben rolled by the WA state government for doing my job," she said. Ms Argyle said this included "protecting Class A nature reserves from property developer." The City of Nedlands has been under scrutiny over its opposition to a proposed park for terminally ill children and their families next to WA's first children's hospice. The park was to be built on a class-A reserve, set aside for high conservation areas, but the land had significantly deteriorated over years. Council argued it wanted to develop the site itself, but the state's planning minister stepped in and took control of the land. One of the councillors who resigned last month cited the hospice park issue as one of the main reasons for quitting.
Daily Mail
03-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Yes, men have a pelvic floor too... and ignoring it could lead to devastating consequences
They're usually only thought to affect women, especially those who have just given birth or are in the throes of menopause. In fact, as many as one in three women will be diagnosed in their lifetime with pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition that makes it difficult to relax or control the muscles around the bladder, bowels and sex organs. Though the pelvic floor is most often associated with women, men have this group of muscles as well, which also support their bladder and bowels, as well as their prostate. And experts warn pelvic floor dysfunction has become increasingly common in men, leaving them prone to incontinence, painful sex, infections and erectile dysfunction. Urologists and physical therapists told men are more likely to ignore telltale symptoms like bladder urgency, constipation, bladder and rectal pain and trouble getting an erection. Age, obesity, recent injuries or surgical trauma have all been linked to the embarrassing condition. But even otherwise healthy lifestyle habits like heavy lifting could loosen or tighten muscles in young, fit men. Doctors also told this website while pelvic floor dysfunction is not linked to deadly conditions like cancer, leaving it untreated can severely worsen a man's quality of life. Dr David Shusterman, a urologist at Modern Urologist in New York City, told 'It's a quality of life problem, not a quantity of life problem.' Dr Leia Rispoli, an interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist at DISC Sports & Spine Center in California, told this website: 'If left untreated, this can obviously lead to not only social and mental health issues for men but also having chronic constipation issues or chronic urinary issues can lead to further organ issues down the road.' Exact estimates vary, but recent research suggests as many as one in six men in the US - 27million - may suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction. Most of these men are between 30 and 50, Dr Shusterman estimates. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that support bladder, bowel and uterus in a women and bladder, bowel and prostate in a man. Men also have a unique set of pelvic floor muscles called the urogenital triangle, which includes the penis, urethra and scrotum. These all help a man achieve and maintain an erection and support healthy ejaculation. Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when these muscles can't properly loosen and relax or contract, leading to trouble passing urine or stool, or, on the flip side, urinary or bowel incontinence. Men specifically may also suffer pain around their penis, testicles, scrotum, rectum and tailbone due to tension and pressure. Pelvic trauma, surgery, stress, anxiety and sitting for long periods of time are most likely to weaken pelvic floor muscles over time. Chronic constipation from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome may also lead to excess straining. Dr Shusterman said: 'If you're in the bathroom and you're just pushing very hard, that would also cause some pelvic floor dysfunction. You're just kind of overusing the muscles there.' Minor injuries may also be to blame. Dr Rispoli said even something 'as small as someone falling onto their buttocks during a snowboard accident' could be enough to 'begin the cycle of persistent pelvic pain.' Intensive exercise also creates pressure in the area. Weightlifting and body weight exercises like squats, for example, push down on the pelvis and lead to pressure. 'A lot of it just goes straight down to the pelvic floor,' Dr Shusterman said. Dr Shusterman notes it's 'hard to diagnose' pelvic floor dysfunction in men because it can masquerade as other conditions like prostatitis - inflammation of the prostate gland - and constipation. 'It's a diagnosis of exclusion,' he said, meaning other conditions have to be ruled out first. However, pelvic floor dysfunction has become increasingly common in men, which could be due to increased awareness. Earlier this year, the American Urological Association released new guidelines encouraging doctors to pay more attention to pelvic floor issues in men and refer them to appropriate providers. Dr Rispoli said: 'It's more common for women to have pelvic issues and feel like they have a gynecologist they can go to or urogynecologist that treats what they have, and men feel a little bit more resistant to be able to get help from the appropriate specialist [for] pelvic floor dysfunction.' To prevent and improve pelvic floor issues, Dr Shusterman recommends lifting or doing squats from an inclined position to 'push upward instead of downward.' Cyclists can also invest in a 'prostate seat' for their bike, which has a cutout in the center to take pressure off the perineum, the area between the genitals and the anus. Treatment is largely focused on long-term physical therapy to work on the muscles rather than medication. Dr Shusterman said: 'The goal is to try to build up the pelvic muscles a little bit better.' This is done with biofeedback, which uses sensors to monitor muscle activity and translate it into visual or auditory cues on a computer screen so users can see the behavior. Shockwave therapy can also help restore blood flow to the pelvic floor, further strengthening it. 'It's a longer term issue and whatever the problems are that brought this on need to continue to be treated,' Dr Shusterman added.
The Independent
19-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Pelvic floor dysfunction affects half of women – and there's an unexpected cause
Did you know that around one in two women in the UK will experience symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction at some point in their lives? And for women who engage in high-intensity exercise, that figure rises to 63 per cent. The female pelvic floor is a remarkable yet often overlooked structure: a complex 'hammock' of muscles and ligaments that stretches from the front of the pelvis to the tailbone. These muscles support the bladder, bowel and uterus, wrap around the openings of the urethra, vagina and anus and work in sync with your diaphragm, abdominal and back muscles to maintain posture, continence and core stability. It's not an exaggeration to say your pelvic floor is the foundation of your body's core. Throughout a woman's life, various events can challenge the pelvic floor. Pregnancy, for example, increases the weight of the uterus, placing added pressure on these muscles. The growing baby can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and separate, naturally increasing the load on the pelvic floor. Childbirth, particularly vaginal delivery, may result in perineal trauma, directly injuring pelvic floor tissues. However, contrary to popular belief, pelvic floor problems aren't only caused by pregnancy and childbirth. In fact, research shows that intense physical activity, even in women who have never been pregnant or given birth, can contribute to dysfunction. Exercise is essential for overall health and is often recommended to ease symptoms of menopause and menstruation. But one side effect that's not talked about enough is the effect that repeated strain, such as heavy lifting or high impact movement, can have on the pelvic floor. The increased intra-abdominal pressure during these activities can gradually weaken the pelvic floor muscles, especially if they're not trained to cope. Pelvic floor dysfunction often results when these muscles aren't strong enough to match the workload demanded of them, whether from daily life, exercise, or other core muscles. And it's a growing issue, affecting more women than ever before. Common symptoms include leaking urine or faeces when coughing, sneezing or exercising, a dragging or heavy sensation in the lower abdomen or vaginal area, painful sex, changes in bowel habits, visible bulging in the vaginal area (a sign of prolapse). The emotional toll can also be significant, leading to embarrassment, anxiety, low confidence and a reluctance to stay active – all of which affect quality of life. Prevention The good news? Help is available and, better yet, pelvic floor dysfunction is often preventable. If you're experiencing symptoms, speak to your GP. You may be referred to a women's health physiotherapist, available through both the NHS and private services. But whether you're managing symptoms or hoping to avoid them in the first place, there are practical steps you can take: Stay active and maintain a healthy weight Drink enough water to encourage healthy bladder function Go to the toilet only when your body signals the need; avoid going 'just in case' Prevent constipation through a high-fibre diet and good bowel habits Don't hold your breath when lifting or exercising Most importantly, build strength with regular pelvic floor exercises. Here's how to do a basic pelvic floor contraction: Imagine you're trying to stop yourself passing wind – squeeze and lift the muscles around your back passage. Then, imagine stopping the flow of urine mid-stream – engage those muscles too. Now, lift both sets of muscles upwards inside your body, as if pulling them into the vagina. Hold the contraction for a few seconds, then fully relax. Repeat. If you're just starting, it may be easier to practise while sitting. With time and consistency, you'll be able to hold contractions for longer and incorporate them into your daily routine, like brushing your teeth or waiting for the kettle to boil. Like any muscle, the pelvic floor gets stronger with training, making it more resilient to strain from childbirth, ageing, or strenuous activity. Research shows that a well-conditioned pelvic floor recovers faster from injury. So be proud of your pelvic floor. Support it, strengthen it – and don't forget to do those squeezes.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle facing major staff turnover dubbed a ‘bloodbath': expert
There's been another staff shake-up within the House of Sussex. Four members of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's staff have left in recent weeks, People magazine confirmed on Friday. Hello! Magazine, which was the first outlet to report the news, said that the staffers who left included their Los Angeles-based deputy press secretary, Kyle Boulia, and their U.K. press officer, Charlie Gipson. Both were brought on last year. Fox News Digital reached out to Archewell, which handles the offices of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, for comment. Prince Harry Remains Stuck In The Past While Meghan Markle Builds Hollywood Empire: Experts "This stands as another indication of the dysfunction and instability within their household," British royals expert Hilary Fordwich claimed to Fox News Digital. "Highly qualified professionals from many top-notch firms have previously struggled to thrive under the Sussexes," Fordwich claimed. "This latest bloodbath serves as solid confirmation." Read On The Fox News App According to People, Meghan, 43, and Harry, 40, hired Meredith Maines as their chief communications officer earlier this year. She previously worked for Google, Hulu and "American Idol." The couple also added Emily Robinson, formerly of Netflix, as the new director of communications. "Something tells me there will be another change in the future," a source told Hello! Magazine. "Meghan and Harry have hired some of the most incredible people at the top of their fields, yet somehow none of them ever work out." Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital that about 20 people have left their roles working for the Sussexes. The couple stepped back as senior royals in 2020 and moved to California. "Something is clearly very wrong if you work for the Sussexes," Fitzwilliams claimed. Click Here To Sign Up For The Entertainment Newsletter "There are those who would link this to the reputation Meghan has of being difficult to work with," he shared. "Bullying allegations, which Meghan has strongly denied, have dogged her since they surfaced in The Times before the notorious Oprah interview [in 2021]. They were recently repeated in The Hollywood Reporter where it was alleged that Meghan was 'a dictator in high heels' and also appeared in Vanity Fair. "There could be another reason - the Sussexes are often dreadful at making plans," Fitzwilliams claimed. "On the one hand, it was always clear that a series like 'Polo' for Netflix would flop. Yet, they still went ahead. On the other hand, it is most unlikely that Harry took advice before he appeared on the BBC [in May] after he lost his case on security." "I would love to know who advised them that it made sense to post the 'twerking video,'" said Fitzwilliams, referring to the video Meghan posted of her and Harry doing the "Baby Mama Dance" on the day of Princess Lilibet's birth. "This will haunt them," said Fitzwilliams. "With judgments as bad as this… you can't blame staff for looking elsewhere." British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital that the Sussexes are "on a mission to create their own royal court." "[They want to] boost their profiles," she claimed. "[There's a view] that a new, bigger team will be better for them and especially help Meghan create a financial empire." WATCH: MEGHAN MARKLE AND PRINCE HARRY ACTED LIKE A COUPLE OF TEENAGERS, PALACE SOURCES ALLEGE IN EXPLOSIVE NEW BOOK In February, Vanity Fair published a scathing cover story about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's lives in California. A spokesperson for the couple didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment at the time. Several of those who worked with the former American actress came forward to the outlet and candidly shared their experiences. They described how, at first, the mother of two would be "warm and effusive," creating an atmosphere of "professional camaraderie." However, whenever something went poorly, "often due to Meghan and Harry's own demands," she would become "cold and withholding towards the person she perceived to be responsible." A source told the outlet that it was "really, really, really awful. Very painful." "She's constantly playing checkers," the source claimed. "She's just very aware of where everybody is on her board. And when you're not in it, you are to be thrown to the wolves at any given moment." The source described it as "undermining." Like What You're Reading? Click Here For More Entertainment News "It's talking behind your back. It's gnawing at your sense of self. Really, like 'Mean Girls' teenager," claimed the source. Producer Jane Marie had a different experience collaborating with the duchess. "She's just a lovely, genuine person," Marie told the outlet. Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News Digital that the Sussexes are looking to revamp their image as they continue raising their young family in the U.S. "The Sussexes seem to be losing the war against the constant vitriolic comments from unnamed individuals close to the royal family in London," he claimed. "The Crown seems to be turning fiction into reality now with brand and media battles constantly going on," he said. "King Charles is seen giving a cheery wave and smile in public but has his head in his hands in private over how to unite the family." Fordwich and Fitzwilliams said the couple's swift staff turnaround has raised eyebrows. Two sources told Vanity Fair that a colleague with ties to the couple's Spotify podcast "Archetypes" took a leave of absence after working on three episodes. Several others said they took extended breaks from work "to escape scrutiny," left their jobs, or underwent "long-term therapy after working with Meghan." "I think if Meghan acknowledged her own shortcomings or personal contributions to situations rather than staying trapped in a victim narrative, her perception might be better," a source told Vanity Fair. "But who am I to criticize Meghan Markle? She's doing great." When the couple made their royal exit, they cited the unbearable intrusions and racist attitudes of the British media, as well as a lack of support from the palace, as their reasons for stepping back. But in 2021, days before Meghan and Harry's televised interview with Oprah Winfrey aired, royal reporter Valentine Low broke the story of bullying allegations against the duchess. Meghan's team strongly refuted the claims. "The duchess is saddened by this latest attack on her character, particularly as someone who has been the target of bullying herself and is deeply committed to supporting those who have experienced pain and trauma," a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a statement sent to Fox News Digital at the time. Prince Harry Accused Of Bullying In 'Deeply Damaging' Claims As New Scandal Rocks Sussexes: Expert "She is determined to continue her work building compassion around the world and will keep striving to set an example for doing what is right and doing what is good." A spokesperson for the Sussexes also told The Times, "Let's just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation." Low told Fox News Digital in 2023 that he stood by his reporting. "The important thing is we all know they're quite litigious," he said, referring to the Sussexes. "But despite getting several strongly worded letters from their lawyers before we published - after we published, we didn't hear a word from them. So that speaks volumes, too." Low's book "Courtiers" also alleged that "relations between the couple and some of their senior staff became so fractious that William's private secretary had to step in to help keep the peace." Low also claimed that some former staff still had difficulty discussing their experiences. Some would even refer to themselves as members of "The Sussex Survivors' Club." When Low's book was published in 2023, reps for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace previously told Fox News Digital they generally do not comment "on such books." Meghan Markle's 'Messiah Complex,' Frequent Hugs Sparked Clash Within Palace Before Royal Exit: Book Meghan returned to Instagram in the new year after disabling her social media accounts ahead of her 2018 royal wedding. There, she regularly promotes her lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her Netflix lifestyle series, "With Love, Meghan." New episodes are premiering in the article source: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle facing major staff turnover dubbed a 'bloodbath': expert
Fox News
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle facing major staff turnover dubbed a ‘bloodbath': expert
Print Close By Stephanie Nolasco, Ashley Papa Published June 17, 2025 There's been another staff shake-up within the House of Sussex. Four members of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's staff have left in recent weeks, People magazine confirmed on Friday. Hello! Magazine, which was the first outlet to report the news, said that the staffers who left included their Los Angeles-based deputy press secretary, Kyle Boulia, and their U.K. press officer, Charlie Gipson. Both were brought on last year. Fox News Digital reached out to Archewell, which handles the offices of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, for comment. PRINCE HARRY REMAINS STUCK IN THE PAST WHILE MEGHAN MARKLE BUILDS HOLLYWOOD EMPIRE: EXPERTS "This stands as another indication of the dysfunction and instability within their household," British royals expert Hilary Fordwich claimed to Fox News Digital. "Highly qualified professionals from many top-notch firms have previously struggled to thrive under the Sussexes," Fordwich claimed. "This latest bloodbath serves as solid confirmation." According to People, Meghan, 43, and Harry, 40, hired Meredith Maines as their chief communications officer earlier this year. She previously worked for Google, Hulu and "American Idol." The couple also added Emily Robinson, formerly of Netflix, as the new director of communications. "Something tells me there will be another change in the future," a source told Hello! Magazine. "Meghan and Harry have hired some of the most incredible people at the top of their fields, yet somehow none of them ever work out." Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital that about 20 people have left their roles working for the Sussexes. The couple stepped back as senior royals in 2020 and moved to California. "Something is clearly very wrong if you work for the Sussexes," Fitzwilliams claimed. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "There are those who would link this to the reputation Meghan has of being difficult to work with," he shared. "Bullying allegations, which Meghan has strongly denied, have dogged her since they surfaced in The Times before the notorious Oprah interview [in 2021]. They were recently repeated in The Hollywood Reporter where it was alleged that Meghan was 'a dictator in high heels' and also appeared in Vanity Fair. "There could be another reason - the Sussexes are often dreadful at making plans," Fitzwilliams claimed. "On the one hand, it was always clear that a series like 'Polo' for Netflix would flop. Yet, they still went ahead. On the other hand, it is most unlikely that Harry took advice before he appeared on the BBC [in May] after he lost his case on security." "I would love to know who advised them that it made sense to post the 'twerking video,'" said Fitzwilliams, referring to the video Meghan posted of her and Harry doing the "Baby Mama Dance" on the day of Princess Lilibet's birth. "This will haunt them," said Fitzwilliams. "With judgments as bad as this… you can't blame staff for looking elsewhere." British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital that the Sussexes are "on a mission to create their own royal court." "[They want to] boost their profiles," she claimed. "[There's a view] that a new, bigger team will be better for them and especially help Meghan create a financial empire." WATCH: MEGHAN MARKLE AND PRINCE HARRY ACTED LIKE A COUPLE OF TEENAGERS, PALACE SOURCES ALLEGE IN EXPLOSIVE NEW BOOK In February, Vanity Fair published a scathing cover story about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's lives in California. A spokesperson for the couple didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment at the time. Several of those who worked with the former American actress came forward to the outlet and candidly shared their experiences. They described how, at first, the mother of two would be "warm and effusive," creating an atmosphere of "professional camaraderie." However, whenever something went poorly, "often due to Meghan and Harry's own demands," she would become "cold and withholding towards the person she perceived to be responsible." A source told the outlet that it was "really, really, really awful. Very painful." "She's constantly playing checkers," the source claimed. "She's just very aware of where everybody is on her board. And when you're not in it, you are to be thrown to the wolves at any given moment." The source described it as "undermining." LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS "It's talking behind your back. It's gnawing at your sense of self. Really, like 'Mean Girls' teenager," claimed the source. Producer Jane Marie had a different experience collaborating with the duchess. "She's just a lovely, genuine person," Marie told the outlet. Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News Digital that the Sussexes are looking to revamp their image as they continue raising their young family in the U.S. "The Sussexes seem to be losing the war against the constant vitriolic comments from unnamed individuals close to the royal family in London," he claimed. "The Crown seems to be turning fiction into reality now with brand and media battles constantly going on," he said. "King Charles is seen giving a cheery wave and smile in public but has his head in his hands in private over how to unite the family." CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Fordwich and Fitzwilliams said the couple's swift staff turnaround has raised eyebrows. Two sources told Vanity Fair that a colleague with ties to the couple's Spotify podcast "Archetypes" took a leave of absence after working on three episodes. Several others said they took extended breaks from work "to escape scrutiny," left their jobs, or underwent "long-term therapy after working with Meghan." "I think if Meghan acknowledged her own shortcomings or personal contributions to situations rather than staying trapped in a victim narrative, her perception might be better," a source told Vanity Fair. "But who am I to criticize Meghan Markle? She's doing great." When the couple made their royal exit, they cited the unbearable intrusions and racist attitudes of the British media, as well as a lack of support from the palace, as their reasons for stepping back. But in 2021, days before Meghan and Harry's televised interview with Oprah Winfrey aired, royal reporter Valentine Low broke the story of bullying allegations against the duchess. Meghan's team strongly refuted the claims. "The duchess is saddened by this latest attack on her character, particularly as someone who has been the target of bullying herself and is deeply committed to supporting those who have experienced pain and trauma," a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a statement sent to Fox News Digital at the time. PRINCE HARRY ACCUSED OF BULLYING IN 'DEEPLY DAMAGING' CLAIMS AS NEW SCANDAL ROCKS SUSSEXES: EXPERT "She is determined to continue her work building compassion around the world and will keep striving to set an example for doing what is right and doing what is good." A spokesperson for the Sussexes also told The Times, "Let's just call this what it is – a calculated smear campaign based on misleading and harmful misinformation." Low told Fox News Digital in 2023 that he stood by his reporting. "The important thing is we all know they're quite litigious," he said, referring to the Sussexes. "But despite getting several strongly worded letters from their lawyers before we published - after we published, we didn't hear a word from them. So that speaks volumes, too." Low's book "Courtiers" also alleged that "relations between the couple and some of their senior staff became so fractious that William's private secretary had to step in to help keep the peace." Low also claimed that some former staff still had difficulty discussing their experiences. Some would even refer to themselves as members of "The Sussex Survivors' Club." When Low's book was published in 2023, reps for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace previously told Fox News Digital they generally do not comment "on such books." MEGHAN MARKLE'S 'MESSIAH COMPLEX,' FREQUENT HUGS SPARKED CLASH WITHIN PALACE BEFORE ROYAL EXIT: BOOK Meghan returned to Instagram in the new year after disabling her social media accounts ahead of her 2018 royal wedding. There, she regularly promotes her lifestyle brand, As Ever, and her Netflix lifestyle series, "With Love, Meghan." New episodes are premiering in the fall. Print Close URL
