Urology is often associated with men’s health, as most practices offer services dealing with male infertility, low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and much more. However, urology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the medical diagnoses of the urinary-tract system and reproductive organs in both men and women! There are several common reasons women see a urologist, as it is essential in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here at Alliance Urology, we’re committed to educating patients on all the benefits of seeing a urologist.
- Female Pelvic Health
According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly 25% of U.S. women are affected by pelvic floor disorders, which occur when the muscles and connective tissue weaken or are injured. There are many different pelvic health conditions, which are classified into several different categories:
- Prolapse Conditions: Cystocele, pelvic organ prolapse, rectocele, uterine and vaginal prolapse, and vaginal prolapse after hysterectomy
- Bladder Dysfunction: Fecal incontinence
- Pelvic Health Conditions: Interstitial cystitis and vaginal fistulas
Depending on which pelvic floor disorder, symptoms may vary but can include urinary issues, constipation, lower back pain, pain in the pelvic region, muscle spasms in the pelvis, and more.
- Interstitial Cystitis (IC)
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic, long-lasting condition that causes painful urinary symptoms and is estimated to affect 3 to 8 million women (3-6%) in the United States. The exact cause of IC is unknown but can cause symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, pain between the vagina and anus, an urgent need to urinate, painful intercourse, and more. The reasons women see a urologist may vary, but if you think you have interstitial cystitis, it is recommended to contact your doctor right away. Untreated IC can lead to various complications such as reduced bladder capacity, decreased quality of life, and emotional distress.
- Overactive Bladder (OAB)
An overactive bladder, also referred to as OAB, causes a frequent and sudden urge to urinate. Sometimes, in severe cases, OAB may lead to the involuntary loss of urine. According to the Urology Care Foundation, as many as 40% of women in the United States live with OAB symptoms. A urologist is considered the best fit for diagnosing conditions such as an overactive bladder. Generally, your doctor will compile information regarding your health history to learn about any past urinary conditions and the symptoms you are currently experiencing.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
One of the reasons women see a urologist is due to prolapse conditions. Pelvic organ prolapse specifically happens when one or more of a woman’s pelvic floor organs drops from their normal position. The types of pelvic organ prolapse include:
- Uterine prolapse
- Bladder prolapse
- Vaginal vault prolapse
- Rectal prolapse into the vagina
- Small intestine prolapse
These conditions are often caused by the weakening of the muscles and connective tissues of the pelvis. Luckily, treatment options are available such as pelvic floor therapy, surgery, pessary, and changes in lifestyle habits such as your diet.
- Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Stress urinary incontinence is among another one of the reasons women see a urologist. SUI occurs when urine leaks out with sudden pressure on the bladder and urethra, causing the sphincter muscles to open briefly. This condition is estimated to affect 1 in 3 women at some point in their lives. Women may experience urine leaking when sneezing, coughing, laughing, standing up, getting out of the car, exercising, or having sex. There are several treatment options for women with SUI and may include one or more of the following:
- Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise to lose weight and smoking cessation
- Pelvic floor muscle exercise
- Biofeedback
- Bladder retraining
- Pelvic floor stimulation
- Injection therapy
- Pessary
- Surgery
Now that you know five common reasons women see a urologist, are you ready to book your appointment? Our team has years of experience treating issues pertaining to the urinary tract and bladder in both genders. Alliance Urology Specialists are here for you at any stage of life. For questions and inquiries, please schedule an appointment with one of our providers, or call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.
