Urogynecology is a subspecialty of urology and gynecology that focuses
on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders that affect women's
urinary tract. The pelvic floor includes the muscles and tissues that
support a woman’s genitourinary organs (uterus, bladder, urethra).
When these muscles weaken or become injured due to childbirth or other
trauma, problems can occur, including urinary incontinence, voiding dysfunction,
and pelvic organ prolapse.
Women with pelvic floor disorders need the clinical expertise of providers
who focus on women’s genitourinary conditions – providers
who listen, understand, and have the specialized training to address your
most personal health issues.
No more suffering in silence:
Pelvic floor disorders affect a woman's quality of life - but they don't
have to. Our urogynecologists understand women's unique health needs and
have the expertise needed to restore pelvic health, well-being, and quality of life.
What is a Urogynecologist?
Urogynecologists are surgeons who specialize in treating pelvic floor disorders.
Chesapeake Urology’s urogynecologists are fellowship-trained in
Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, giving them unique qualifications
to treat complex conditions that affect the reproductive and urinary systems,
as well as bowel dysfunction (fecal incontinence).
Women living with these pelvic health conditions often feel embarrassed
or alone. While pelvic floor disorders are common, they are not a normal
part of aging. We are here to help get you back on the active life you
love to live!
Our urogynecologists have specialized surgical training to treat female
pelvic floor disorders, offering comprehensive care tailored to YOUR unique needs.
How is Urogynecology Different from Gynecology?
Urogynecology specifically addresses conditions affecting the pelvic floor
and urinary system. Here's how they differ:
Gynecology focuses primarily on the female reproductive system, including routine
preventive care, contraception, pregnancy, vaginal discharge, pap smears,
fertility issues, and reproductive disorders.
Urogynecology, a sub-specialty of urology and gynecology, concentrates on the surgical treatment of female pelvic floor disorders
such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence with minimally
invasive and reconstructive surgical procedures.
What Conditions Does a Urogynecologist Treat?
Urogynecologists diagnose and treat a wide range of pelvic floor disorders,
including:
Pelvic Organ Prolapse - When one or more of the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, or rectum) drop
into the vagina due to weak or damaged pelvic muscles that can no longer
support or keep these organs in place within the pelvis.
Urethral conditions including urethral diverticula, urethral strictures,
urethral prolapse, and urethral obstruction from prior surgery (e.g. sling, Burch).
Vaginal cysts
Genitourinary tract fistulas
Vaginal mesh complications
Fecal Incontinence
Voiding Dysfunction and Neurogenic Bladder
How Are These Conditions Diagnosed?
Our urogynecologists provide each patient with a personalized assessment
to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Your provider will order diagnostic tests
to evaluate your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.
Diagnostic tests may include:
A urine sample to check for abnormalities in the urine
Post-void residual, an ultrasound scan to see the amount of urine left
in the bladder after voiding
Pelvic floor exam to check for anatomical issues or pelvic organ prolapse
Ultrasound to visualize the urinary tract and pelvic organs
Uroflow test to assess bladder emptying
Urodynamics study (UDS) to test the ability of your bladder to store and
empty urine
A cystoscopy, which is a diagnostic procedure with local anesthesia (lidocaine
gel) that uses a tiny camera to look at the urethra and bladder
Treating Pelvic Floor Disorders
Treatment for pelvic floor conditions puts you back in control of your
health. It’s time to get back to feeling normal and break free from
urinary and pelvic health issues!
At Chesapeake Urology, we offer a team-based approach to care that involves
advanced practice providers (physician assistants and nurse practitioners),
medical assistants, urodynamacists, and urogynecologists (surgeons) working
together to deliver both procedure-based and surgical treatment of pelvic
floor disorders.
Procedure-based treatments are those that do not typically require general anesthesia to perform:
Robotic-assisted surgery to correct
pelvic organ prolapse, returning pelvic organs that have dropped or are bulging into the vagina
back into place while also repairing muscles and tissues. These procedures
include robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy, transvaginal hysterectomy, vaginal
and urethral reconstructive surgery, and others.
A Team Approach
Your physician will explain the appropriate procedure for your condition
in detail and work with you to determine the best path forward. Our urogynecology
team includes advanced practice providers, navigators, and support staff
who offer a continuum of care that puts YOU at the center of every decision.
Our goal is to restore your quality of life.
Why Choose Chesapeake Urology for Urogynecology Care?
Chesapeake Urology’s urogynecologists understand that pelvic floor
disorders can significantly impact your quality of life. The team is committed
to getting you back to living life on your terms without the challenges
pelvic floor conditions can pose.
The region’s leading female pelvic floor specialists. From fellowship-trained urogynecologists to pelvic health nurse navigators,
advanced practice providers, and a support team that specializes in women's
health issues, we have your every need covered.
Comprehensive care. We offer a full spectrum of treatment options, from conservative approaches
to advanced surgical procedures, with access to a full range of urologic
specialists.
Personalized treatment plans. Our specialists take time to understand your unique concerns, goals, and
medical history to develop individualized care plans that address your
specific condition and restore your quality of life.
Advanced therapies. We offer the latest diagnostic tools, treatments, and clinical trials for
optimal outcomes.
Proven results. Our patients experience significant improvements in symptoms and quality
of life, with high satisfaction rates following treatment at Chesapeake Urology.
You’re in control - Schedule a consultation with a Urogynecologist
near you and take the first step toward renewed confidence, comfort, and
well-being.
