Welcome to your guide on urogynecology, an important field dedicated to enhancing women's pelvic health. Here at Summit Health, we're committed to providing compassionate care through a blend of specialties that address the unique needs of women's pelvic health.

We’ll help you understand the important role of urogynecology, explore the common conditions we treat, learn about preventive measures for pelvic health and discover the comprehensive care we offer.

What is Urogynecology?

Urogynecology combines expertise in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery to help women experiencing pelvic floor disorders. This specialized field marries the insights of gynecology, urology and pelvic surgery to deliver holistic treatment options for conditions impacting the pelvic floor, such as organ prolapse and urinary incontinence.

At Summit Health, our urogynecologists are at the forefront of pelvic medicine, adopting both innovative non-surgical approaches and minimally invasive surgical techniques. We aim to address various conditions, including overactive bladder, urinary tract infections and pelvic floor dysfunction, with the utmost care and precision.

We understand how conditions like stress incontinence—a common issue among many women—can affect your quality of life, and we’re here to offer solutions to these conditions that restore your comfort and confidence.

Common Conditions Treated by Urogynecologists

At Summit Health, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide array of pelvic floor disorders.

Our dedicated care team provides individualized management for conditions including, but not limited to:

• Urinary Incontinence: Loss of bladder control, which can significantly impact daily life.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: When pelvic organs drop due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
• Overactive Bladder: A condition characterized by urgent and frequent urination.
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Difficulty in controlling the muscles of the pelvic floor.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections that affect the urinary tract, causing discomfort and other symptoms.
• Stress Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure.
• Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Challenges with relaxing and contracting the pelvic floor muscles correctly.
• Bowel Problems: Issues such as constipation or fecal incontinence related to pelvic floor disorders.
• Abnormal Bleeding: Unusual menstrual bleeding patterns that may signal underlying gynecologic conditions.
• Gynecologic Conditions: A range of issues affecting the female reproductive system that may require specialized care.

Our comprehensive and patient-centered approach offers several minimally invasive solutions that can enhance your health and quality of life. Whether your treatment plan includes physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments or surgery, our team dedicates itself to providing the support and expertise you need for a successful outcome.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes for Good Pelvic Health

Prevention is a cornerstone of our philosophy at Summit Health. We aim to empower women to maintain optimal pelvic health by advocating for preventive measures and lifestyle changes. 

Here are some key preventive measures and lifestyle changes that can promote pelvic health:

• Strengthening Exercises: Regular pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels, to enhance muscle strength and endurance.
• Healthy Bladder Habits: Limiting caffeine and acidic foods that can irritate the bladder and maintaining a healthy fluid intake.
• Proper Lifting Techniques: Bend at the knees and keep the back straight while lifting to avoid straining the pelvic floor.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the pelvic organs.
• Constipation Prevention: A high-fiber diet and adequate water intake can prevent constipation, reducing strain on the pelvic floor.
• Smoking Cessation: Smoking can contribute to coughing, which puts stress on the pelvic floor muscles, so quitting is beneficial.
• Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular, moderate exercise to keep the body healthy and improve overall pelvic floor function.
• Mindful Bathroom Habits: Avoid going "just in case" and learn to recognize natural cues from the body to prevent overactive bladder symptoms.
• Pelvic Health Check-ups: Scheduling regular appointments with a healthcare provider for early detection and management of any pelvic health issues.

By integrating these practices into daily life, women can significantly improve their pelvic health and reduce the risk of developing pelvic floor disorders.

Our team encourages open conversations about pelvic health, urging women to schedule regular appointments for early detection and management of potential issues. Remember, taking proactive steps can significantly impact your overall well-being and prevent the progression of pelvic floor conditions.

Urogynecology at Summit Health

At Summit Health, we offer a comprehensive suite of health services tailored to women's unique pelvic health needs. Our dedicated care team, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a deep understanding of urogynecology, is here to provide treatment plans that encompass both your physical and emotional health.

Let us help you navigate your path to improved pelvic health. You don't have to suffer in silence or navigate this journey alone. Summit Health is here for you, offering the latest in medical advancements and a compassionate, caring team dedicated to your recovery and wellbeing.

Contact us to schedule an appointment to learn more about our urogynecological services and how we can assist you.