Urogynecology

Everything You Need to Know About Urogynecology

Expect | When to see | Need | Symptoms | Stages | Procedures  

What is urogynecology?

The sub-specialty of gynecology is- urogynecology. In many countries, it is also known as Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. Clinical problems such as dysfunction of the bladder and pelvic floor are managed by a urogynecologist.

What is a Urogynecologist?

Doctors who receive special treatment to treat and diagnose women with pelvic floor disorders are known as urogynecologist or urogyns as well. They complete a residency or medical school in Urology or Gynecology or Obstetrics.

Urogynecologists are specialists who have additional training and experience to treat the conditions that affect the female pelvic organs. These conditions can be along with the connective tissue and muscles that support the female pelvic organs.

Not all urogynecologists complete formal fellowship. It mainly deals with the surgical and non-surgical treatments of the problems that are non-cancerous. Some of the common problems treated by urogynecologist are:

• Pelvic organ prolapsed
• Urinary incontinence or leakage
• Overactive bladder

What does a Urogynecologist do?

After completing the studies and securing a degree in gynecology, the aspiring candidates undertake a fellowship. It lasts for at least three years. Treatments for incontinence, surgical procedures for restoring and reconstructing the pelvic floor, and other matters that have relation to pelvic organs are performed as well.

Urogynecologists are specialists who treat only women. Various conditions of the pelvic organs along with the surrounding muscles and tissues are getting diagnosis and treatment by a urogynecologist. Prolapse and incontinence of the pelvic organs also get treatment by urogynecologist.

About 1 in 4 women is suffering from pelvic health conditions such as:

• Pelvic organ prolapsed- Loss of the normal support of the vagina causes the dropping of the pelvic organs- pelvic organ prolapse.
• Urinary incontinence- Leakage of urine when you laugh, sneeze, or cough
• Bowel control disorders- It includes fecal incontinence, bowel leakage, and constipation.
• Overactive bladder- A sudden urge to urinate happens by leakage. This is due to the spasms of the bladder.

What can you expect at Urogynecologist?

During the first visit to urogynecologist, doctors will ask about your experiences that you face. Depending on the nature of the problem, a physical exam will also happen. Physical exams will help the urogynecologist to understand your problem better. They will be providing the best treatment option for you as well.

When should you see a Urogynecologist?

If you are experiencing matters related to pelvic organs such as uterine prolapse, overactive bladder, bowel incontinence, urinary incontinence, and other frustrating pelvic problems, you may find relief by visiting an expert in this field.

Urogynecologists are experts who treat the female pelvic organs and the pelvic floor, such as:

• Connective tissue
• Muscles
• Ligaments
• Nerves responsible for controling and supporting the function of the rectum, bladder, uterus, and vagina.

Why Women Need Urogynecologist?

Some women may want to see urogynecologist because they are gynecologist with special training. They treat bladder control problems and various other conditions, which involves the urinary tract and female reproductive system, such as:

• Urine leakage
• Bloody urine
• Sudden and frequent urges to urinate
• Pain in the sides or back
• Burning sensation during urination

Women see a gynecologist after facing these symptoms as well. The above-mentioned symptoms can be a reason for:

• Urinary tract infections
• Fallen bladder
• Bladder control problems
• Urinary stones
• Painful bladder syndrome
• Cancer

What are the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction?

Read the following symptoms given below to enhance your knowledge about pelvic floor dysfunction:

• Severe pelvic pain (groin, back, abdomen)
• Pain during menstrual period
• Sudden and frequent urge to urinate
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Burning sensation during urination
• Vaginal burning
• Constipation
• Urinary incontinence

What is Stage 3 pelvic organ prolapse?

Let us first categorize the four stages of pelvic organ prolapse:

• 1 – The uterus will be in the upper half of the vagina
• 2 – It will also descend to the opening of the vagina
• 3 – It pokes out of the vagina
• 4 – It will come out of the vagina completely

Stage 3 pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the ligaments and muscles of the pelvic floors stretch and weaken. They can no longer provide the required support to the uterus. Therefore, the uterus slips down or comes completely out of the vagina. It can occur in women of any age.

Urogynecology procedures

There is no reason for you to suffer from a pelvic or a bladder condition silently as well. Urogynecologists can diagnose and treat the disorders through minor lifestyle changes, surgery, or even medication. The urogynecology procedure also includes:

• Burch procedure
• Culdeplasty
• Cystocele and rectocele repair
• Marsupialization or excision of Bartholin’s Gland
• Paravaginal repair
• Posterior repair
• Sacral colpopexy
• Sacrospinous ligament fixation
• Trans-obturator tape (TOT)
• Tension-free vaginal tape
• Colpcleisis

What Treatments option Urogynecologist Offer?

Treatment options usually depend upon the condition of the patient. Doctors take the decision after performing several physical exams also. The following are the treatment options urogynecologist offers:

• Diagnosis and evaluation
• Behavioral therapy
• Surgery

You have to see urogynecologist as soon as you face the symptoms of it. Do not be shy and face incontinence and prolapse of pelvic organs silently.

Disclaimer:- The content on this post is for information purposes only. Please consult your doctor for personalized medical advice.