Urogynecology is a sub-speciality of gynaecology that deals with diagnosing and treating conditions related to the female pelvic organs, muscles, and connective tissues. These conditions include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and faecal incontinence.

In this blog, we'll talk about urogynecology and what you should know about it.

What is Urogynecology?

Urogynecology is a sub-speciality of gynaecology that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the pelvic floor and the female urinary and reproductive systems. Urogynecologists are medical doctors who specialise in evaluating and managing conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, faecal incontinence, and other disorders that affect the pelvic organs, muscles, and connective tissues.

Urogynecologists use diagnostic tools, including pelvic examinations, urodynamic testing, and imaging studies, to diagnose urogynecological conditions accurately. They then develop individual treatment plans for each patient, including lifestyle modifications, pelvic floor muscle exercises, medication, or surgical interventions.

Urogynecology is a multidisciplinary field, and urogynecologists often work collaboratively with other healthcare providers, such as physical therapists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons, to provide comprehensive care to their patients. It aims to improve a woman's quality of life by addressing issues related to urinary and faecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse.

Some of the diseases urogynecologists deal with are listed below:

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine, which affects millions of women worldwide. This condition can significantly impact a woman's social and emotional well-being, causing embarrassment, shame, and isolation.

Urogynecologists evaluate the underlying causes of urinary incontinence and develop individualised treatment plans, including lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications, or surgery.

Pelvic floor disorders

Pelvic organ prolapse is another common condition that affects women, particularly after childbirth and menopause. It occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the pelvic organs such as the uterus, bladder, and rectum, weaken allowing them to sag into the vagina.

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse may include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the vagina, urinary or bowel incontinence, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Urogynecologists can offer a range of treatment options, including pelvic floor exercises, pessaries, or surgery, depending on the severity of the prolapse and the woman's overall health.

Faecal Incontinence

Faecal incontinence, or the involuntary loss of bowel control, is another condition that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. It may be caused by damage to the anal sphincter muscles or nerves, childbirth, or other medical conditions.

Urogynecologists can work with patients to determine the underlying cause of faecal incontinence and develop a personalised treatment plan that may include medications, bowel retraining, or surgery.

If you are experiencing urogynecological issues, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or faecal incontinence, seeking medical care from a qualified urogynecologist is essential.

Apollo Cradle offers comprehensive urogynecological care from experienced specialists who provide personalised treatment plans that address your unique needs.

Conclusion

Urogynecology, or urogynaecology, is a specialised medical field that combines the principles and practises of urology and gynaecology with a particular focus on surgical interventions. Urogynecology is a vital field of medicine that provides compassionate care and support to women experiencing urogynecological conditions.

Suppose you are experiencing urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or faecal incontinence. In that case, it is important to seek medical care from a qualified urogynecologist.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Bengaluru - Brookefield. Call 1860-500-4424 to book an appointment.

1. What does a urogynecologist treat?

A urogynecologist treats urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse (vagina, uterus, cystocele, and rectocele dropping), and overactive bladder.

2. What's the difference between a urologist and a urogynecologist?

Urologists treat UTIs, cancer, male infertility, incontinence, and more. Urogynecologists specialise in women's symptoms related to urinary incontinence, prolapse, and pelvic floor disorders.

3. Should I see a gynaecologist or urogynecologist?

While gynaecologists can aid in general wellness and labour and delivery, urogynecologists can provide additional help. If you have an ongoing issue like prolapse or bladder problems, consider seeing a urogynecologist alongside your gynaecologist.

4. What are the surgical procedures for urogynecology?

The following are some of the most commonly performed surgeries: robotic sacrocolpopexy, which aids in treating vaginal vault prolapse. The vaginal vault suspension procedure involves sewing the vaginal wall to vital pelvic ligaments.

5. Why would someone see a urogynecologist?

A urogynecologist should be consulted for issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. They can help diagnose and treat these conditions using various methods, including surgical and non-surgical approaches.