What is Urogynaecology?
Urogynaecology is a specialised subsection of both urology and gynaecology that is focused on addressing conditions that affect the pelvic organs including the vagina, bladder, uterus and rectum. Common conditions that our consultants diagnose and treat include:
Pelvic organ prolapse
This refers to the movement of the top part of the vagina, womb, bladder, or bowel from its normal position into the vagina, leading to pain and discomfort. While lifestyle changes and pelvic floor exercises may help alleviate a prolapse, surgical intervention may be necessary.
There are several types of pelvic organ prolapse:
- Cystocele - the bladder protrudes into the front wall of the vagina.
- Rectocele - the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina.
- Enterocele - the small intestine bulges into the vagina.
- Uterus Prolapse - the uterus slides into the vagina
- Vault Prolpse- the top of the vagina (after a hysterectomy) slides into the vagina
Childbirth injury
During childbirth it is common for women to experience physical injury or trauma. The injuries can include prolapse and vaginal and perineal tears. This can happen naturally during childbirth or can result from medical interventions, such as an episiotomy—a procedure where the vagina or perineum is cut to make space for the baby.
Lower urinary tract symptoms
These conditions include various difficulties related to urination, such as urinary urgency, frequency, incontinence, cystitis and voiding difficulties - where the bladder never fully empties.
Pelvic pain syndromes
This condition is an ongoing pain in the bladder, urethra, vagina, or perineum. The pain can vary in intensity, from mild to severe, and frequency, from constant to periodic.