The Stages of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Dr. James Haley discusses the different stages of prolapse and when to seek treatment.
Leaky Bladder Symptoms and Remedies
One in five women endures the symptoms of leaky bladder, or urinary incontinence. Yet often, a suffering woman does not acknowledge it as an issue. She may be self-conscious about mentioning the condition to her doctor, or she may assume it’s a normal part of being a woman. Two of the most commonly accepted situations are incontinence after pregnancy and incontinence during exercise. The truth is, although urinary incontinence is common, it is not considered normal. Needing to urinate frequently, as well as urinary urgency, are signs that one may be dealing with a leaky bladder. Fortunately, for a woman experiencing these symptoms, she can find both surgical and non-surgical options in treatment to minimize or even eliminate these symptoms permanently. What is Urinary Incontinence? Weakening of the pelvic floor can affect bladder control and urethra function, causing issues with urination. Women suffering from urinary incontinence find themselves running to the bathroom frequently. Strong urges to use the restroom, even after urinating, is another sign that a woman may be dealing with urinary incontinence. It is important to not brush off the occasional leak experienced while exercising or shifting position, because there are treatments available for women dealing with urinary incontinence. Types of Urinary Incontinence One important step in the diagnosis process is identifying the type of urinary incontinence, in order to find the best treatment option. Stress Incontinence This type of incontinence occurs when urine leaks out of the bladder during certain strenuous activities. Jogging or other exercising can cause urine leakage. Coughing and laughing can also bring on an unexpected leak. More severe symptoms of stress incontinence may include urine leakage during low stress activities such as changing position or walking. Many pregnant women can experience stress incontinence as the growing uterus puts pressure on their relaxed pelvic floor and the organs shift to make room for baby. Sometimes the symptoms are dismissed as an annoying pregnancy symptom, but if they do not subside after delivery, they may need medical assistance to prevent symptoms from worsening. Urge Incontinence Commonly referred to as overactive bladder, or OAB, urge incontinence is a continued sensation of needing to urinate. This sensation is often an overwhelming, powerful urge which sends women dodging for the nearest restroom. Urge incontinence is different from stress incontinence in that it occurs suddenly, without pressure on the bladder from strenuous activity. In addition to strong urges to urinate, women with urge incontinence may find themselves waking up at night to use the restroom, interfering with a full night’s rest. Sometimes, there may be an underlying condition that is causing the undeniable urges to urinate. An honest discussion about symptoms with a doctor can help them determine any underlying conditions so they can better treat you. Preventing Urinary Incontinence Many situations can result in urinary incontinence. There are some factors that do make a woman more prone to the condition, including pregnancy and childbirth. Women who want to lessen the chance of experiencing urinary incontinence can follow the advice below: Leaky Bladder Remedies Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to mention your symptoms to one of our double board-certified FPMRS specialists. Treatment options will be chosen based on the severity of the symptoms but can include:
The Bulge After the Baby: You’re In Good Hands
You just had a baby, but something feels “off “down there. You’re not quite sure what to expect because you’re new to the whole postpartum process, but you’re certain that a bulge in your vagina is not normal. When the vaginal pressure does not ease up, you decide to check in with your doctor, only to find out that you have a type of Pelvic Organ Prolapse called Uterine Prolapse. As scary as this diagnosis may sound to you, there are options available to relieve symptoms, or repair the prolapse. Uterine Prolapse: Causes and Treatments You wonder how this prolapse happened. One day your uterus is snugly in place, and the next, you are suffering the unpleasant symptoms of pain, pressure and an aching lower back. A prolapsed uterus is a common occurrence after a vaginal birth, but even women who have never given birth can also develop a prolapse. When damage to the fascia, ligaments and muscles of the pelvic floor occurs, it can cause the uterus to sag into the vaginal canal – leading to incontinence, and a feeling that something is “stuck” or “falling out.” These problems may worsen with age, as decreased estrogen causes the pelvic floor to relax even more. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with these meddling symptoms. There are options, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Relax – not every uterine prolapse will require surgical repair. You and your doctor can work together to decide the best course of action to fit your lifestyle and diagnosis. Many women with mild symptoms find that pelvic floor physical therapy is helpful in reducing symptoms. Those with more moderate symptoms might find reprieve by wearing a device known as a pessary, which is fitted to your vagina, and worn internally. A pessary can help to lift the uterus out of the vagina, and relieve many of the distressing symptoms. If your symptoms are more severe, Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery may be the best option to ensure that you are not living with the troublesome effects of uterine prolapse. You are not alone! Many other women are dealing with the inconvenience and pain of a prolapsed uterus, and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Make a list of questions and concerns and contact your doctor today. A prolapsed uterus doesn’t have to rule your life. We Are Specialists in Female Pelvic Anatomy Physicians who are board-certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) understand complex female anatomy, and are able to offer a range of effective treatment options when problems occur. In fact, Cherokee Women’s is the only OB/GYN practice in the southeast with multiple OBs who are also board-certified in FPMRS. You’re in good hands–during your pregnancy and after. Talk to your FPMRS physician about your options to find relief for your symptoms and help that “bulge” disappear.
