Urogynecology & Urinary Incontinence

The field of urogynecology is a subspecialty within Obstetrics and Gynecology and is dedicated to the study and treatment of pelvic floor disorders in women, in all the various ways that it can present itself.

One of the most common problems facing women is pelvic floor dysfunction, which affects approximately 50 percent of all women – the majority of whom do not seek professional help.

Pelvic floor dysfunction may cause urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, vaginal pain or discomfort and abdominal discomfort.

Many women experience significant changes in daily activities and even self-identify because of these conditions.

Abnormal function results from a variety of medical disorders as well as normal changes associated with childbirth and aging.

In a caring and understanding manner, we will evaluate and treat these pelvic floor disorders:

  • Vaginal Vault Prolapse
  • Cystocele
  • Rectocele
  • Enterocele
  • Urinary Incontinence
  • Fecal Incontinence

Urinary Incontinence

Learn the Facts!

  • About four million women around the world are affected by Stress Urinary Incontinence and/or Urinary Incontinence. Coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercise or heavy lifting is often accompanied by involuntary leakage of urine. It is commonly associated with aging but can also affect women of all ages.
  • However,  it is important to know that these are common treatable conditions and you don’t have to live with it. There are many treatment options that can help you gain control over this condition.

With proper medical care and treatment, you can regain your quality of life.

Figure1. Normal Pelvic anatomy
Figure 1. Normal Pelvic anatomy
Urethra is well-supported, there is no urinary leakage.
Figure2. Weakened pelvic floor muscles and urinary sphincter
Figure 2. Weakened pelvic floor muscles and urinary sphincter
When the pelvic floor is weakened, it fails to support the urethra, thus allowing the leaking of urine. 

Types of Incontinence

1) Stress Urinary Incontinence

  • Stress Urinary Incontinence is the unintentional passage of urine prompted by a physical movement during normal everyday activities. You may leak urine when you sneeze, laugh, cough and lift heavy objects, activities that put pressure or stress on your bladder.
  • Stress incontinence is much more common in women and affects women of any age. It most often caused by weakness of the pelvic floor which results from multiple child births, pelvic surgery, obesity or menopause.

2) Urge Urinary Incontinence

  • Urinary incontinence is having an urge to urinate that’s so sudden and strong that you don’t get to the toilet in time.
  • Urge urinary incontinence is caused by over active bladder rather than a weakness of the pelvic floor.

3) Mixed urinary Incontinence

  • Some women may experience both Stress and Urge Urinary Incontinence.

4) Overflow Urinary Incontinence

  • Women experience involuntary urine leakage which results from an overfilled bladder without feeling the need or urge to void.
  • Incontinence may make you feel embarrassed. You tend to isolate yourself, or limit your work and social life, especially exercise and leisure activities. With proper treatment, you are expected be able to manage stress incontinence and improve your overall well-being.
  • If   Urinary Incontinence affects your day-to-day activities, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. In most cases, simple lifestyle changes or medical treatment can ease your discomfort or stop urinary incontinence.

How Do I Know If I Have Incontinence?

To determine if you may be living with incontinence ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you leak urine unexpectedly?
  • Do you leak urine continuously?
  • Do you currently wear pads or liners to protect against unplanned leaks?
  • Does the urine loss occur during coughing, sneezing, laughing, bending, exercising or lifting?
  • Does the urine loss occur when you change from a sitting or lying position to a standing position?
  • Do you have trouble holding your urine as you hurry to the bathroom?
  • Has this urine loss caused you to change your lifestyle?
  • When planning a trip or outing, does the availability of restroom facilities affect your decision?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, take the next step and talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional.