What is Urogynecology?

Urogynecology is a specialized field of medicine focusing on issues related to the female pelvic floor and urinary system. This branch of medicine addresses conditions that affect the bladder, uterus, and surrounding pelvic organs, particularly concerning women’s pelvic health.

Stress Incontinence

What is Stress Incontinence? Stress incontinence is a condition where involuntary leakage of urine occurs during activities that put stress on the bladder, such as coughing, laughing, sneezing, exercising, or lifting heavy objects. This happens because the pelvic floor muscles and the tissues around the urethra (the tube through which urine exits the body) become weak or damaged, leading to a lack of support for the bladder.

Symptoms:

• Uncontrolled urine leakage during physical activities
• The sensation of needing to rush to the bathroom
• Occasional urine leakage when laughing, coughing, or exercising

Treatment Options:

• Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercises): Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help reduce leakage.
• Bladder Training: Learning to control the urge to urinate through scheduled bathroom trips.
• Pessaries: A device inserted into the vagina to provide extra support to the pelvic organs.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options may be considered to repair weakened or damaged pelvic tissues.

Urge Incontinence

What is Urge Incontinence? Urge incontinence, also known as overactive bladder, is a condition where there is a sudden, strong urge to urinate that is difficult to control. This can lead to involuntary leakage of urine before reaching the bathroom. It often results from overactive bladder muscles or nerve signals causing the bladder to contract uncontrollably.

Symptoms:

• A frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Urine leakage before reaching the toilet
• Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate

Treatment Options:

• Bladder Retraining: Techniques to gradually increase the interval between bathroom visits.
• Medications: To reduce bladder muscle contractions or increase bladder capacity.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises: To strengthen the pelvic floor and support bladder control.
• Nerve Stimulation: Using devices or therapies to control nerve signals to the bladder.

Pelvic Floor Defects

What are Pelvic Floor Defects? Pelvic floor defects involve a weakening or displacement of the muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum). This can lead to conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, where organs like the bladder or uterus drop into the vaginal canal.

Symptoms:

• A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area
• Visible bulges or tissue protruding from the vagina
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel completely

Treatment Options:

• Pelvic Floor Exercises: To strengthen the muscles that support the pelvic organs.
• Pessaries: A non-surgical option that provides support to the pelvic organs.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical repair of the pelvic floor may be necessary to correct the prolapse and provide lasting relief.

Why Choose Urogynecology?

Consulting a urogynecologist offers specialized care tailored to women’s pelvic health needs. Whether you’re experiencing stress or urge incontinence, or dealing with pelvic floor defects, our urogynecology team is here to provide comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and support to help you regain control over your bladder and improve your quality of life.

Contact Us to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better pelvic health.