Background
Urogynecology is a specialized field of gynecology that involves the diagnosis and management of bladder problems and incontinence, as well as pelvic support defects and prolapse. Urinary incontinence and Pelvic prolapse are very common conditions that occur predominantly in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. However symptoms can occur at any age. Pelvic prolapse is defined as the downward displacement of a pelvic organ (Uterus, rectum, bladder, or bowel) within the vaginal cavity. Women usually become symptomatic when the prolapsing organ desends to the level of the vaginal opening or beyond. Common risk factors include multiple vaginal childbirths, prolonged labor, and instrumented delivery. Other risk factors include COPD, chronic cough, hereditary connective tissue weakness, and obesity.
A women may experience any of the following symptoms of pelvic prolapse:
- Sensation of a buldge or a ‘ball’ at the vaginal open
- Pelvic Pain or Pressure
- Urinary frequency or inability to completely empty bladder
- Constipation or inability to completely evacuate bowel
- Needing to place your fingers inside the vagina (splinting) in order to void or have a bowel movement
- Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Loss of sexual sensation
- Vaginal Bleeding
- Urinary incontinence
Our Services:
We are a referral center for pelvic prolapse and urinary incontinence. The management of these conditions constitutes a large portion of practice. We perform all of the diagnostic testing and work up in our office. We are a multichannel urodynamic testing facility. Conservative therapy with pelvic floor exercises and pessary fitting are offered. When these therapies are unsuccessful, Dr. Farnam offers a wide range of minimally invasive surgical options.
