What is Urogynaecology?
It is the combination of Urology (bladder and kidneys) and Gynaecology (reproductive system).
Think of the pelvis like a house:
1. The Gynaecologist looks after the “rooms” (the uterus, ovaries, vagina).
The Urologist looks after the “plumbing” (the bladder and urethra).
2. The Urogynaecologist is a specialist in the floor and structure that holds everything up (the pelvic floor).
Because the bladder and the womb sit right next to each other, a problem with one often affects the other. This specialist treats them together.
What do they treat?
They focus on problems with the Pelvic Floor—the hammock of muscles that stops your organs from falling out. Common issues include:
1. Incontinence: Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or run (Stress Incontinence) or having a sudden, uncontrollable urge to go (Urge Incontinence).
2. Prolapse: This is when the “hammock” gets weak, and organs (like the womb or bladder) drop down. It can feel like a bulge or a heavy dragging sensation in the vagina.
3. Bladder Pain: Constant pain or pressure in the bladder area.
4. Emptying Issues: Difficulty peeing or feeling like you can’t empty your bladder completely.
Why would you see one?
You would typically see a urogynaecologist if:
1. You have bladder leaks that standard exercises haven’t fixed.
2. You can feel a lump or bulge coming down in the vagina.
3. You have had a previous surgery for these issues that didn’t work.