TL;DR
- Most women tend to avoid discussing pelvic health due to its sensitive nature
- Urogynecology is where gynecology meets urology and involves therapies to strengthen the pelvic floor and prevent issues like incontinence and discomfort during intimacy
- Some non-surgical urogynecological treatments are are follows:
- Behavioral therapies
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (PFME)
- Medications
- Vaginal pessary
- Biofeedback and electric stimulation
- Bulking agents and bladder injections
- Some surgical treatments that may be recommended for severe cases:
- Mid-urethral sling procedure
- Pelvic organ prolapse repair
- Anal sphincteroplasty and reconstruction
Pelvic health is often a subject women keep behind closed doors, spoken about in whispers, if at all. Whether it’s the involuntary leak of urine when laughing or the lingering heaviness after childbirth, these concerns often feel too personal to share, even with a doctor.
Yet the reality is that you are not alone. Research shows that nearly half of all women experience pelvic health issues, though many remain silent or accept them as an unavoidable part of life. But it doesn’t have to be this way. The right support exists in the form of urogynecologists, specialists dedicated to female pelvic health. These experts not only understand what you are going through but also provide compassionate care tailored to your needs.
In this article, we’ll explore some helpful urogynecology treatments you can administer yourself, empowering you to take charge of your health and restore confidence in your body.
Let’s Talk About Pelvic Health
Urogynecology is where gynecology meets urology. It focuses on the pelvic floor, which includes the muscles, tissues, and ligaments that support the bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum.
When this system weakens due to childbirth, aging, menopause, or genetics, you may notice frustrating and embarrassing changes in your body. A weakened pelvic floor can cause issues with bladder control, bowel function, and comfort during intimacy.
Beyond the physical discomfort, pelvic issues can impact your confidence and daily life. This is why seeing a female pelvic health expert can make such a great difference.
The Silent Struggles Many Women Face
Here are signs that may mean it’s time for you to see a pelvic health expert:
- Your urine leaks when you laugh, cough, or sneeze (Also called stress incontinence)
- Frequent or sudden urge to go to the washroom (overactive bladder)
- A heavy or dragging feeling in your pelvic area
- Pain in the lower belly or pelvis during intimacy
- Recurrent UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)
- Trouble controlling bowel movements
If any of these sound familiar, it’s important to remember that these are real health issues and you don’t have to “live with it”. Treatment is available.
Gentle Treatments That Don’t Involve Surgery
Most women find relief through gentle non-surgical care. Here are some options to consider:
- Behavioral Therapies
Behavior therapies include small habits and lifestyle changes that can help you deal with stress incontinence and the sudden urge to urinate.
- Avoid (or limit) acidic foods and drinks like caffeine and alcohol. These irritate your bladder and can make matters worse.
- Excess body weight can put pressure on the bladder. If you are over your ideal body weight, losing some weight can help release that pressure and regain control.
- Try to use the washroom at regular times, even when you don’t feel the urge to urinate. This can prevent accidents when the urge comes too late.
- Tracking when leaks occur and how long you typically wait before needing to use the bathroom can provide valuable insights. Over time, this record helps you gradually extend the intervals between trips, strengthening your bladder control.
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)
Think of this as a complete rehabilitation program for your pelvic floor. PFMT is performed under the supervision of a physical therapist. The training includes exercises and therapies, such as electrical stimulation and biofeedback, as needed. It’s designed to help you regain muscle strength.
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (PFME)
These are also known as Kegel exercises. Regular Kegels can help with the symptoms of urinary incontinence.
- Medications
Many medications on the market can help relax your bladder muscles and control the urge to pee. Your doctor can help prescribe medication tailored to your specific symptoms and medical history.
- Vaginal Pessary
These small, removable silicone devices fit inside your vagina and provide gentle support for prolapse. They are soft, easy to use, and can be fitted during a doctor’s visit.
- Biofeedback and Electric Stimulation
These therapies are designed to retrain your pelvic floor by strengthening, relaxing, and coordinating your pelvic floor muscles to enhance their function. In biofeedback, a trained professional uses small sensors that provide real-time visual and auditory cues, helping you learn how to relax and contract the appropriate muscles. Biofeedback is often used in combination with electrical stimulation, which involves a mild current to activate your muscles.
- Bulking Agents and Bladder Injections
These minimally invasive procedures are conducted under local anesthesia, where a bulking agent is injected into the urethra to treat urinary incontinence. Additionally, Botox can be injected into the bladder muscle to treat overactivity.
When Surgery Becomes the Right Choice?
If non-surgical treatments are not helping or in severe cases, your pelvic health expert may recommend surgery. Here are some options:
- Mid-urethral Sling Procedure
This is a minimally invasive procedure often used to treat urinary incontinence. During the procedure, the doctor places a supportive “hammock” made of mesh or your own tissue under the urethra to help keep it in place and prevent leakage.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair
These procedures are done to repair and support organs that have shifted or dropped out of their normal position. Common approaches include vaginal, laparoscopic, and robotic repair.
- Anal Sphincteroplasty and Reconstruction
This surgery repairs or rebuilds the anal sphincter and is usually considered only for severe cases of fecal incontinence.
Reclaiming Confidence and Control of Your Body
Talking about pelvic health shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, yet so many women continue to struggle in silence. Whether it’s leaks, pain, or ongoing discomfort, these issues don’t have to be your “new normal.” With the right pelvic health expert, you can regain control of your body, rebuild confidence, and return to living the life you love. Gentle, evidence-based care and supportive treatments can make every day feel easier and lighter again.
At Almara Women’s Health, we take your pelvic health seriously. We listen, we understand, and we create a tailored care plan that fits your needs and goals, without judgment or pressure. Our focus is simple: your comfort, your recovery, and your freedom to thrive.
If you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to us at info@almara.com or visit any of our 10 convenient Twin Cities locations.
