a doctor explaining to a female patient why women should see a urologist

Urology is commonly associated with men’s health, but at Alliance Urology Specialists, we have multiple services specifically for women. The urinary tract is comprised of muscles and organs that require specialized care. In addition to providing treatment for problems in the urinary tract and bladder, we also offer pelvic floor therapy to improve bowel, bladder, and pelvic function. To help clear up any confusion, we’re explaining some of the top reasons why women should see a urologist.

UTIs

While UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics, chronic or persistent UTIs may need to be evaluated by a urologist.  A urologist can rule out reversible factors that may be predisposing such as stones, kidney malformations, and poor bladder function. 

Pelvic Problems

According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly a quarter of women are affected by pelvic floor disorders. These conditions include:

  • Cystocele: This occurs when the ligaments and muscles in the pelvic floor weaken, allowing the bladder to sag into the vagina.
  • Pelvic organ prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse is when one or more of a woman’s pelvic floor organs fall out of their normal position. 
  • Rectocele: This condition involves the tissue between the rectum and the vagina weakens resulting in a bulge of the front wall of the rectum into the back wall of the vagina.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for pelvic floor disorders, but fortunately, there are various treatment options, including medication, physical therapy,  surgery, and more. Alliance Urology Specialists are also proud to offer pelvic floor therapy as a treatment for pelvic floor disorders and other urinary and bowel disorders, pain syndromes, pregnancy, postpartum rehabilitation, and more.

Bladder Problems

Several bladder conditions can benefit from a trip to the urologist. At Alliance Urology Specialists, we specialize in bladder control problems, including overactive bladder and stress urinary incontinence. 

Overactive Bladder

Some people view overactive bladder as a part of getting older or as a condition that doesn’t require treatment. Fortunately, there is a way to treat this condition and improve your quality of life. Overactive bladder has various causes and can lead to increased urinary urgency, frequency, leakage, or it may disrupt your sleep patterns. Treatments for overactive bladder included behavioral interventions, medications, neuromodulation, or even surgeries. Setting up an appointment with a urologist can help you determine the proper treatment for you.

Stress Urinary Incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence is a common bladder condition that predominantly affects women, making it one of the main reasons why women should see a urologist. It is characterized by urinary leakage caused by sudden pressure on the bladder. Everyday occurrences such as sneezing, laughing, exercise, and even just standing up can cause this pressure on the bladder. While lifestyle changes and surgery are viable treatment options, many patients have found pelvic floor therapy to effectively treat stress urinary incontinence.

Urinary Stones

Urinary stones occur when substances combine to crystallize  in the kidneys, bladders, or ureters. These stones can lead to severe flank and pelvic pain when there is blockage to the normal flow of urine. Many treatments are available for treatment such as medications, shockwave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, and even more aggressive therapy for very large stones. There are also specific options to help prevent recurrent stones. 

Make an Appointment

To diagnose and treat any common problem related to the female urinary and pelvic systems, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Our team has years of experience treating issues pertaining to the urinary tract and bladder. Alliance Urology Specialists are here for you at any stage of life. For questions and inquiries, please call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.