Pelvic floor disorders are incredibly common, yet not normal experiences. People often live with them for years without ever seeking care, partly due to embarrassment and partly because of the assumption that their symptoms are just part of aging or a fallout from childbirth.

To be clear: pelvic floor disorders are not something to endure.

Urogynecology is a specialized field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor conditions to help provide relief from their symptoms. Whether you’re navigating urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse or bowel incontinence, this kind of care is designed to get you back to life with more comfort and confidence.

What conditions are treated by urogynecology?

Urogynecology is a subspecialty within gynecology that focuses on pelvic floor disorders. These conditions affect the muscles, tissues and organs that support the pelvic floor, which includes the bladder, urethra, uterus, vagina, rectum and small intestine.

WHA’s urogynecologists most often treat:

People who have these conditions may suffer through them without seeking help for a few reasons. Some aren’t sure how their pelvic floor is supposed to work or what’s considered atypical, especially in or after pregnancy and childbirth.

Conditions are also underreported because many hesitate to bring them up, even with their doctor. Some may mention a symptom once and not receive the support they need. Others have been told that leaking urine or feeling pelvic pressure is just something that happens “naturally” as we age.

Just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s normal, though.

What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?

The narrative that pelvic floor disorders are something we’ll all experience at some point likely persists because the risk factors for developing one are widespread.

The most common risk factors include:

  • Pregnancy and childbirth, especially without postpartum pelvic floor support
  • Aging, due to natural hormone changes and loss of estrogen
  • Chronic constipation putting strain on pelvic tissues
  • Obesity, which adds pressure to the pelvic floor
  • Genetics affecting how connective tissues respond to stress

While it’s true that many of these factors can’t be avoided, there are ways to lower your risk:

  • Strengthen pelvic floor muscles, especially before and after childbirth–and as you age
  • Avoid constipation with a fiber-rich diet and regular movement
  • Seek care early rather than waiting for symptoms to get worse or “bad enough”

When should I see a urogynecologist?

If symptoms are disrupting your daily life, or are a worry always on your mind, it’s worth getting evaluated. Here are some signs it’s time to reach out:

  • Frequent bladder leaks or urgency
  • Feeling pressure or heaviness in the pelvis
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
  • Leaking stool without control

Many OB/GYNs and primary care providers are comfortable starting treatment if you have a pelvic floor disorder, but if your symptoms persist or you feel like something’s being missed, ask for a referral to a urogynecologist. Most insurance plans require one, but some allow you to self-refer.

What to expect from treatment

When you see a urogynecologist, we’ll typically start with the basics to better understand your experience, including:

  • A conversation about your symptoms, concerns and goals
  • A physical exam, which may include assessing pelvic muscle tone or prolapse
  • Diagnostic tests, if needed
  • A personalized treatment plan, created together with your input
How treatment plans are made

Every person’s situation is different, and so is their care plan. With my patients, I closely listen to what’s bothering you most to understand how symptoms affect your life—not just medically but emotionally, too.

Based on that conversation, my job is to give you clear information about your options so you can decide what feels right for you. In most cases, we will start with non-surgical treatments, such as:

If those approaches don’t offer enough relief, we may talk about surgery. Surgery is often effective, but it’s typically not the first step. Like any procedure, it comes with risks, so we work with you to weigh the benefits before deciding to move forward.

Why is urogynecology important?

Many people don’t realize how much their symptoms affect their lives until the symptoms are gone. It becomes easy to normalize things like planning your day around bathroom access, packing extra clothing or avoiding activities that will keep you away from home.

But living around a condition isn’t the same as treating it. This is why once patients do come in and start to experience symptoms relief, they often say they wish they would’ve sought care sooner.

The reality is pelvic floor disorders can be exhausting and isolating—a drain on your emotional energy that can steal precious time from all of life’s small and big moments. So whether you’ve just started noticing symptoms or have been living with them for years, we’ll meet you where you are and help you find the right treatment for you.

If you’re ready to talk about your options, we’re ready to listen. Schedule an appointment >