A urogynecologist will treat any issue related to the female urinary tract. They will diagnose the problem, decide the right course of treatment, and carry out the same instead of referring the woman to various health departments.
Generally, a urogynecologist will handle the following issues:
- Urinary Incontinence – A problem related to the ability to control urine. It can affect women of all ages, especially new mothers or older women. Women with this issue find it hard to control their urine. They may leak urine when they cough, sneeze, or even due to unexpected jerks. They may want to urinate very frequently, and may not have the ability to control their urine like other healthy women. In rare cases, some women may produce more urine than what their bladders can empty, thus leading to frequent leaks and visits to the toilet.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse – When the tissues and muscles holding up the pelvic floor organs become weak and cannot support the organs, the organs will drop from their position. This is known as a pelvic organ prolapse. A urogynecologist may advise therapy, treatment, or surgery to correct this prolapse.
- Bladder Problems – Issues such as bladder leakage, pain in the bladder, and changes in urine smell, color, or quantity of output are all bladder problems. A urogynecologist can treat these issues using medications or therapies.
What Procedures Does a Urogynecologist Perform?
Some of the non-surgical procedures a urogynecologist performs are:
- Administer injections or prescribe medications to treat urinary incontinence
- Insert vaginal pessary for a pelvic floor prolapse
- Offer therapy and exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles
- Stimulate the nervous system to treat bladder-related issues
- Cystoscopy to get a better view of the bladder from the inside
- Urodynamic testing to test the bladder functioning
- Endoscopic surgery using thin instruments called endoscopes
What are the Most Common Urogynecology Surgeries?
Urogynecologists will also perform surgeries to treat issues related to the female pelvic floor and urinary system. Sometimes they may suggest a surgery right away and in some cases, they may try a treatment first and opt for surgery only if necessary.
Some of the common urogynecology surgeries are:
- Assembling or reconstruction of the vagina
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Robotic-assisted surgeries to fix a prolapse or remove organs
- Surgery to restore bladder control
- Surgery in the rectum or small intestine
- Pelvic reconstruction
- Install slings for prolapsed organs
- Install a pacemaker for overactive bladder
- Uterus removal
- Colpocleisis to correct pelvic prolapse in older women or those who are no longer sexually active
A urogynecologist can perform more procedures or surgeries according to the requirement. Each case is unique and treatment suggestions can differ from person to person.
Should I Consult A Urogynecologist?
Sometimes, it can be confusing to decide if you should meet a gynecologist or a urogynecologist. If you have a gynecologist, the best option would be to consult them. They can check the issue and suggest accordingly. If your gynecologist is associated with a state-of-the-art facility, you can consult a urogynecologist within the same facility.
You may need to consult a urogynecologist instead of a gynecologist if you have the following issues:
- Pain in the rectum, pelvic, or genital areas
- Painful or intense sex
- Pressure or spasms in your pelvic area
- Urinary issues like urinary incontinence or bladder control
- Pelvic organs prolapse or drop
- Pain in the back, or lower stomach
Many women may experience these issues soon after childbirth. Pregnancy can trigger such issues or cause nerve damage. Both vaginal and cesarean deliveries can lead to such issues or complications. A urogynecologist can diagnose the issue and treat the same. Sometimes, such issues can be resolved with time but sometimes they need a specialist.
End Note
A urogynaecologist and a gynaecologist know the female reproductive and urinary system well. However, each specialises in specific areas and handles surgeries or treatments only in areas of their expertise. It is essential to consult the right specialist for the perfect solution to your problem.
