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When should you see a Urogynecologist?

Bladder control issues are a primary reason for seeing a urogynecologist.  This includes the inability to hold your urine, or difficulty making it to the bathroom on time.  These symptoms affect millions of women, and you should not be ashamed to seek out advice and care.

Another reason to seek out a urogynecologist is if your pelvic organs are “falling” or prolapsing through your vagina.  There are multiple ways of treating these problems which include:

What is Urogynecology?

The inability to hold your bladder before going to the restroom is a symptom commonly associated with incontinence or bladder control issues. The condition affects millions of women throughout America. These symptoms, and many other issues with your pelvic floor area, are treated by a specialist called a urogynecologist.

Urogynecologists treat all pelvic floor and bladder issues. Overactive bladders, weak pelvic muscles, reproductive issues, and incontinence are all included in this medical field. Evaluations, diagnoses, and treatments all depend on the symptoms you are experiencing.

Common urogynecology treatments include:

  • Medications
    • Not all conditions require surgery and some will respond well to medical treatments.
  • Injections
    • Bladder control and incontinence can be treated with bulking agents. These injections are done under local anesthesia in a doctor’s office or with an outpatient procedure.
  • Vaginal Pessary
    • A pessary is a medical device inserted into the vagina to support our organs in case of prolapse. The devices come in various shapes and sizes and are fit during an office visit.  In some cases, you may need to have periodic follow up to assess how well you are doing. These are soft structures that come in various sizes and shapes to fit different needs. You are fit for the necessary device during an office visit.
  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
    • There are a variety of methods to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor therapy is often used to teach the patient how to exercise and increase pelvic floor muscle strength.  Kegels are an example of exercises that can help.  
  • Nerve Stimulation
    • Nerve stimulation is performed by providing electrical impulses to the nerves that control the pelvic floor muscles.  This can either be done with an indwelling device or using thin acupuncture needles.
  • Surgery
    • Surgery may be required if conservative therapies do not work or are not appropriate for your condition.  These surgeries may involve “lifting” the bladder, or removal of the uterus, and reconstruction or repair of the vaginal muscles.  If necessary, your doctor might suggest surgery as a treatment option. Some surgeries offered are vaginal wall repair, bladder installations, uterus removal, and bladder control surgery.

Why Should You See a Urogynecologist?

Many symptoms overlap, make an appointment to speak to a urogynecologist if you experience:

  • Vaginal bulging (feels like something is coming out of or bulging into your vagina)
  • An ache or feeling of fullness in the vagina sometimes worse during a bowel movement or at the end of the day
  • Trouble emptying your bladder
  • Leaking urine or feces
  • Frequent Urination
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pelvic pain
  • A strong urge to urinate even if your bladder isn’t full.
  • Having to get up frequently during your normal sleeping hours
  • Pain during urination
  • Bedwetting or leaking during sleep

These are all symptoms of completely treatable pelvic floor issues such as:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Pelvic support problems
  • Urinary tract abnormalities
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Medication side effects

There are a wide variety of treatment options.  Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about what options are the best for you. A thorough examination and a complete medical history will help them find the cause of your urinary tract problems. Once they find the root cause, your doctor can work with you to devise an effective treatment plan.

Find a Women’s Healthcare Provider that Cares

Beyond traditional ObGyn needs, you deserve exceptional care. This is why our team places great value on the quality of care we offer our patients. We deliver individual care with women’s needs in mind. Contact Capital Women’s Care today to schedule your appointment.