Approximately 25% of women experience at least one Pelvic Floor Disorder (PFD) during their lifetime. But this percentage is even higher among those who are older than 65 years. 

 

Why? Because it's a well-established fact that all PFDs tend to increase after menopause. These statistics make it more crucial to have good urogynecologists around us. 

 

Since pelvic health is sometimes relegated to whispers, it's essential to understand the importance of urogynecology—a specialized field dedicated to improving women's lives facing pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and other related issues. In this blog, we will explore who exactly a urogynecologist is and when you should consider seeking their expertise.

 

Who is an Urogynecologist?

 

A urogynecologist is a specialized medical doctor who focuses on the health of the pelvic region. This area includes the bladder, uterus, vagina, and surrounding muscles and tissues.

 

Think of them as experts in the intricate network of structures that make sure everything "down there" functions properly. They're like detectives, trained to solve the mysteries of pelvic health.

 

Sometimes, these vital structures may not work as they should, causing issues like urinary incontinence (trouble controlling urine) or retention of urine (incomplete emptying of bladder), pelvic organ prolapse (when organs like the bladder or uterus drop out of their usual positions), or discomfort in the pelvic area.

 

When you face such problems, urogynecologists step in to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options. Their goal is to ensure your pelvic health is excellent, and they have the knowledge and tools to do that.

 

What Does a Urogynecologist Do?

 

A Urogynecologist is like a specialized doctor to help when things in the pelvic area aren't working as they should. Let's take a look at what they can do and how they can help you:

 

1. Medications: If you are facing problems like incontinence (a common issue for controlling your bladder or bowels) or pelvic pain, the doctor might prescribe medications. These medications can help manage the situation and make you feel better.

 

2. Injections:Urogynecologists use “botulinum toxin” or “bulking agents” for some bladder and incontinence problems. These help in improving bladder control and are simple procedures, done usually in daycare facilities.

 

3. Vaginal Pessary:When the pelvic organs descend from their normal position, the condition is termed as prolapse. For this, a urogynecologist might recommend a special device, “pessary.” It’s a soft removable tool that’s placed inside your vagina to support and restore the normal positions of your pelvic organs. Then only, these organs will be able to function normally. Urogynecologists will make you learn how to fit and take care of these devices.

 

4. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training:Urogynecologists suggest and train people in exercises like Kegels, which help strengthen the muscles of pelvic areas and reduces the risk of prolapse and incontinence.

 

5. Nerve stimulation:Urogynecologists help in calming the overactive bladder. They assist patients with nerve stimulation treatment focused on improving bladder control.

 

6. Surgery:The urogynecologist recommends and performs surgery for various pelvic ailments. They are experts in defect specific repairs. They are skilled and certified to operate various tools and treatment options to improve your quality of life.

 

So, in a nutshell, a urogynecologist is a go-to expert when you’re facing issues in the pelvic area. They have a variety of tools and treatments to improve women's health.

 

What Conditions Does a Urogynecologist Treat?

 

A urogynae fixes various pelvic problems. These issues can happen for different reasons, like after having a baby or doing a lot of heavy lifting. Here are examples of few types of issues they can help with:

 

1.  Stress Incontinence: This is when you find difficulty in controlling your bladder like accidentally leaking urine while sneezing, laughing or jumping.

 

2.  Urge Incontinence:Sometimes, your body suddenly tells you it’s time to go to the bathroom, and you can’t hold it in. That’s what urge incontinence is.

 

3.  Overactive Bladder:Imagine your bladder as a bit too eager, always waiting for the bathroom even when you don’t need to. That’s what an overactive bladder feels like.

 

4.  Bladder Pain Syndrome/ Interstitial Cystitis:This condition where your bladder gets irritated, causing pain and a frequent urge to pee, even when there’s not much to pee out.

 

5.  Prolapse:Think of it like a “slip and slide” but inside your body. Your uterus, bladder, or rectum can shift from their normal position, causing discomfort.

 

6.  Frequent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):If you keep getting painful infections in your bladder, a urogynecologist can help figure out the reason and the way to prevent them.

 

7.  Fistulas:These tiny holes shouldn’t be there connecting your vagina or uterus with bladder, rectum, or other parts. They can cause incontinence along with other unusual symptoms and need fixing.

 

Reasons to See a Urogynecologist

 

Here are some of the common reasons to see a urogynecologist:

 

1. Vaginal Bulging:If you notice something coming out of your vagina that shouldn't be there, like a lump or bulge, it's a sign to see a urogynecologist.

 

2. Vaginal Discomfort:Feelings of fullness or aching in the vagina, especially after a long day or during bowel movements, could indicate a problem that needs attention.

 

3. Trouble with Peeing:If you're having difficulty peeing or feel like your bladder doesn't empty properly, it's a sign that you should seek help.

 

4. Leaking Urine or Faeces:Accidentally leaking pee or poop is not something you should ignore, as it can be a sign of a pelvic issue.

 

5. Urgent Need to Pee:If you suddenly have to go to the bathroom all the time and can't hold it in, it's time to talk to a urogynecologist.

 

6. Frequent Urinary Tract Infections:If you keep getting painful urinary tract infections (UTIs), it could be a sign of an underlying issue that a urogynecologist can help with.

 

7. Pain During Sex:Experiencing pain during sexual activity is another reason to consider visiting a urogynecologist.

 

8. Pelvic Pain:General discomfort or pain in your pelvic area signals that something may need attention.

 

You don't have to worry much and figure this out on your own. Your regular doctor or gynecologist can refer you to a urogynecologist if you have any of these symptoms. Don't hesitate to talk to them about what you're experiencing during your next visit. Consider visiting a superspeciality hospital for expert guidance and further advice.