Urogynecology (Pelvic Health)

A urologist may use urine and blood tests to assess kidney function and detect infections or blockages. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI are often used to visualize the kidneys and detect stones, cysts, or structural abnormalities.

Gynecologists can screen for and diagnose many bladder issues, including urinary tract infections and incontinence. For more complex or chronic bladder problems, they may refer patients to a urogynecologist or urologist who specializes in pelvic floor and urinary disorders.

The urogynecologist’s primary focus is on pelvic floor and urinary issues. Many patients continue to see their regular gynecologist for care, including Pap smears and relegate visiting a urogynecologist for more specialized care.

Urogynecologists do not treat kidney stones. Patients with kidney stones should instead seek treatment from a urologist.

During your first urologist appointment, the doctor will review your medical history and symptoms before performing a physical exam. They may order urine tests, blood work, or imaging to evaluate your urinary tract and develop a treatment plan.

Your gynecologist, frequently a primary care provider, focuses on general female reproductive health, including menstruation, contraception, pregnancy and menopause. A urogynecologist is an gynecologist that has additional training in treating pelvic floor disorders and urinary issues that affect women.

There are women's health care providers that trained in internal medicine; they do not operate or perform outpatient procedures such as hysteroscopy or manual vacuum aspiration; all gynecologists have trained as obstetricians, but many no longer deliver or see pregnant patients.

Symptoms can include urinary leakage, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels, pelvic pressure, pain during intercourse, and a sensation of bulging in the vaginal area. Some people may also experience chronic pelvic pain or a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen.

Urologists are specialized medical doctors who manage and treat conditions related to the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. They perform a variety of procedures to diagnose and treat various urological issues. Common procedures include cystoscopy, which involves the inspection of the bladder and urethra using a thin camera; prostate biopsy to test for prostate cancer; and lithotripsy, which is used to break up kidney stones. Urologists also perform surgeries such as vasectomies, to provide long-term contraception, and prostatectomies, to remove part or all of the prostate gland. Additionally, they manage conditions like urinary incontinence, infections, and cancers of the urinary tract or male reproductive system. These interventions can range from minimally invasive techniques to more extensive surgical procedures, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with urological conditions.

Pelvic floor disorders occur when the muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum weaken or become damaged. This may result from pregnancy independent of whether a baby is born vaginally or by cesarean. These disorders include pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and flatal or stool incontinence.

At a urogynecologist visit, you can expect a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors. The doctor may perform a pelvic exam, bladder function tests, or imaging studies to create a personalized treatment plan.

A urologist treats urinary tract and bladder conditions in both men and women, as well as male reproductive issues. A urogynecologist specializes specifically in female pelvic floor disorders.