Urogynecology is a field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating women with pelvic floor problems. Pelvic problems, including urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, can greatly affect a woman’s life quality. You can take an important first step to understanding and managing pelvic organ disorders by scheduling a consultation. This article will look at what you can expect in an urogynecology visit, such as the evaluations and tests conducted and the possible treatment options.
Understanding the Urogynecology Consultation Process
A comprehensive pelvic examination is part of an urogynecology appointment.
Medical History Review: The urogynecologist, during your first consultation, will review all of your previous medical histories, including surgeries, medical conditions, and medications. It’s crucial to provide accurate, detailed information on your symptoms. Describe the type of symptoms you are experiencing, their duration and severity, and any triggers or factors that may worsen them or help alleviate them.
Physical Examination: The pelvic area may be examined to detect abnormalities or signs indicating pelvic floor disorders. This may involve a visual examination, a test to determine the strength, tone, and condition of the pelvic floor muscles, and a digital exam to evaluate the condition and health of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus.
Symptom Assessment: The urogynecologist can ask about your symptoms. These include urinary frequency, urgency, and leakage. They may also inquire about bowel habits or discomfort in the vaginal area. This information will help your urogynecologist understand you better and create a plan of treatment that suits you.
Lifestyle and Behavioural Assessment: Lifestyles and behaviors can affect pelvic-floor health in a big way. The urogynecologist could ask you questions about your diet or fluid intake. They may also inquire about how active you are and your toileting habits. A pelvic-floor specialist may also ask about habits such as heavy lifting, constipation, or persistent coughing that might aggravate symptoms.
Urogynecology: Types of Tests and Evaluations
The urogynecologist could recommend tests and evaluations based on specific symptoms to assess your condition further. Some common urogynecology tests and evaluations include:
Urodynamics: Urodynamics is a specialized assessment that measures the function of the bladder and the urethra. It involves measuring many parameters to determine your urinary system’s storage capacity and function. The urodynamic test can help diagnose the underlying cause of urinary incontinence or other symptoms.
Pelvic Ultrasound: This non-invasive study uses ultrasound waves to create pictures of the pelvic uterus, the bladder, and the ovaries. Pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging study that uses sound waves to create images of pelvic structures, such as the uterus, bladder, and ovaries.
Cystoscopy: A cystoscopy examines the linings of the urinary canal using a thin tube and camera. It can help detect abnormalities, including inflammation, infections, and structural problems in the bladder or urethra.
Colposcopy: A colposcopy (a specialized instrument) is used to examine the cervix visually. The colposcopy procedure can help you identify abnormalities in the cervix, including lesions or tumors.
Conclusion
Urogyne cologist in Houston can provide women with important health services, such as routine check-ups or specialized surgery. Understanding your urogynecological concerns and finding the appropriate treatment provider will help improve your physical and psychological health. Consider scheduling a Houston consultation with a urogynecologist to meet your specific needs.