Urogynecology

Urogynecology is a subspecialty within obstetrics and gynecology that focuses on pelvic floor disorders and pelvic reconstructive surgery. Urogynecologists are fellowship-trained surgeons.

At SSM Health, our urogynecologists are committed to helping women improve their quality of life when it comes to pelvic health. Our clinical team has expertise in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions that affect the muscles and connective tissue of female pelvic organs. These include pelvic pain, endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapse, and incontinence, conditions that affect as many as one in three women.

What is a pelvic floor disorder?

The pelvic floor is a series of muscles and connective tissue that support the organs in your pelvis: the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum. When that support system is weakened, these organs can’t function properly, resulting in conditions like prolapse and incontinence.

Childbirth is the most common cause of pelvic floor disorders in women. Other factors that increase your risk of pelvic floor disorders include obesity, repeated heavy lifting, your genetics, and previous pelvic surgery.

What are conditions treated by urogynecologists?

Conditions commonly treated by urogynecologists include:

• Urinary incontinence and other urinary problems like painful urination and the urgent need to urinate
• Fecal incontinence
• Constipation or pain during bowel movements
• Pelvic organ prolapse, which can cause pain and pressure in the vagina or rectum
• Pelvic pain

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek treatment since pelvic floor problems are not likely to go away on their own and often get worse over time. Care may range from conservative, non-invasive treatments to reconstructive surgery.

Our team approach to pelvic floor disorders.

We employ a multidisciplinary approach to pelvic health with physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, and physical therapists working together to provide comprehensive care for each patient. 

Our team provides treatment for pelvic floor disorders to reduce or eliminate bothersome symptoms using the least invasive approach. Your wishes, the severity of your condition and your general health define the pelvic floor treatment options that meet your specific needs, which often includes pelvic health physical therapy.

Get started today by making an appointment with one of our specialists, who will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and help you select the treatment that’s best for you. Remember that pelvic pain and other pelvic floor disorders can be challenging to treat so consider getting a second opinion before committing to a treatment plan.