Women’s health issues can be frustrating and emotionally draining. It is common to feel that your symptoms are nothing more than a physical problem. Fortunately, your urogynecologist can help treat gynecological and urological health issues affecting your daily life. However, you might need a proper diagnosis before receiving any treatment. If you have unusual urinary tract or reproductive health symptoms, visiting a urogynecologist such as Dr. Peter A Khamvongsa would be your best option. Here are some of the most common women’s health issues that your urogynecologist can address.
1. Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is a common problem that affects many women. It can be caused by several health conditions, including endometriosis, ovarian cysts and fibroids. In addition to these non-cancerous tumors, pelvic pain may also be related to stress or lack of physical activity. A urogynecologist can diagnose any symptoms related to your reproductive system and recommend treatment options based on their findings during a health exam in an office setting.
2. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections are very common, with more than half of women having at least one in their lifetime. They can be caused by various factors, including lack of cleanliness, sexual activity and certain medical conditions.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are usually treated with antibiotics and are highly treatable if caught early. However, you might experience recurrent UTIs without any symptoms or signs that you might have an infection present, also known as a silent infection.
If you have recurring UTIs or notice any changes in your urinary pattern, you should visit your urologist immediately to check the causes and prescribe appropriate treatment options.
3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Prolapse is a condition where the organs of your pelvic floor bulge out through the opening that normally holds them in place. The most common form of this problem is a prolapsed bladder, which can also involve other pelvic organs such as the uterus and vagina.
If your uterus has prolapsed into its normal position, you may experience increased urinary frequency or incontinence, which is the loss of control over bladder function. Also, if you have a prolapsed vagina, you may experience vaginal discharge or itching around the entrance.
4. Bowel Incontinence
Bowel incontinence is a common problem that affects women of all ages, but more common in older women. Incontinence can be caused by childbirth or aging. It can also be caused by other conditions like diabetes and Parkinson’s.
If you have bowel incontinence, you may experience leakage of stool from your anus as well as urine from your bladder when you sneeze or cough. It can happen when there are no noticeable spasms in your muscles around the rectum and anus, a condition known as urge incontinence.
5. Cancer
Your urinary tract might develop issues due to cancer affecting your bladder, kidneys or urethra. You might experience chronic back pain, blood in urine and pain during urination. You may also find yourself visiting the bathroom more than usual. If you have any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your urogynecologist for possible cancer treatment options such as radiation, chemotherapy or surgery.
If you are struggling with any of the mentioned women’s health issues, you can receive personalized and compassionate treatment from Dr Peter A Khamvongsa. He is a certified women’s health doctor with extensive training in providing services to women of all ages. Call his office or visit the clinic’s online portal to schedule an appointment with him.