You may be familiar with urology and gynecology, but you may be less familiar with the closely related field of urogynecology.
Urogynecologists are specialized physicians who treat conditions of the female pelvic floor, such as urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and interstitial cystitis. These conditions can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing, but they are treatable and a urogynecologist can help improve your quality of life.
What is a Urogynecologist?
A urogynecologist has training in both gynecology and urology. This gives them the knowledge and experience to help women with conditions involving the bladder, reproductive organs, pelvicfloor muscles and connective tissues. Their goal is to help women regain comfort, confidence and quality of life.
What is the difference between a gynecologist and a urogynecologist?
Some patients may think that a urogynecologist replaces your gynecologist, but that’s not the case. You may continue to see a gynecologist for:
- Annual exams
- Pap smears
- Breast exams
- Management of endometriosis or fibroids
- Pregnancy care
A urogynecologist becomes involved when pelvic floor symptoms or conditions require specialized treatments beyond the scope of your gynecologist’s care.
What kind of conditions does a urogynecologist treat?
Urogynecologists treat a wide range of pelvic floor disorders. These may include:
- Urinary incontinence
Incontinence occurs when there is a lack of voluntary bladder control over urination. There are multiple different causes of urinary incontinence, and a urogynecologist can help to create a specialized treatment plan for you. - Pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse happens when one or more of the organs inside the pelvis, such as the uterus and bladder, drop from their normal position, often causing pressure, bulging or discomfort. - Persistent urinary tract infections (UTI’s)
- While many UTIs will be successfully treated with medication, persistent infections may require further evaluation and intervention by a urogynecologist.
- Interstitial cystitis
- Also known as painful bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that can cause urinary urgency, frequency and pelvic pain.
- Fecal incontinence
- Loss of bowel control can be embarrassing, but it is treatable with proper evaluation and therapy. Urogynecologists can help identify and treat the underlying cause, which can include pelvic floor dysfunction, nerve damage or muscle injury.
- Fistulas in the pelvic floor organs
- Fistulas are an unusual opening between two or more of the pelvic floor organs. A genitourinary fistula is an abnormal opening between the vagina, urethra, bladder and ureter. A rectovaginal fistula is an unusual opening between the rectum and vagina.
What kind of procedures and treatments can urogynecologists offer
Urogynecologists can perform a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments, and many treatment options that can be performed in-office. They may also recommend specialized testing, such as urodynamics or cystoscopy. Some treatments they offer include:
- Minimally invasive and robotic surgeries
- Pessaries, a device used to support the uterus, bladder or rectum, for pelvic organ prolapse
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections for urinary incontinence
- Sacral nerve stimulation
- Urethral bulking
Our urogynecologists partner with you to find the least invasive, most effective plan based on your symptoms and health goals.
Why choose a Urogynecologist at NGPG?
Urogynecologists at NGPG are board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Female Pelvic Health and Reconstructive Surgery. These specialized physicians provide advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders. They partner closely with you to create a personalized, seamless care experience. To schedule an appointment, please call 770-219-9810 or schedule online with a Urogynecologist closest to you in northeast Georgia.