Whether you’re preparing for an initial consultation or already have your procedure scheduled, it helps to become familiar with common Urogynecology terms. While Drs. Miklos and Moore will thoroughly explain your diagnosis and procedure so that you feel comfortable and confident in your treatment plan, having a few terms under your belt will make this processes even easier.
Urogynecology, also known as Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, is dedicated to the treatment of women with pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence, prolapse of the vagina, bladder and/or uterus. There are many different treatment options available and in the hands of our world-renowned and expert surgeons, you can trust that you’ll be thrilled with the success of your treatment. Here are some terms that you’ll most likely come across during the course of your Urogynecology treatment:
- Biofeedback: This technique uses various devices to provide information about the contraction of pelvic muscles. It is typically added to a pelvic muscle exercise program and works to improve the awareness and control of the pelvic floor muscles. Biofeedback can be given by a therapist, computer, or vaginal weights.
- Bladder Control Problems: There are many types of bladder control problems, including urge incontinence, urge frequency, stress incontinence, and overactive bladder (also known as being unable to hold urine long enough to get to the restroom, frequently urinating day and night, or leaking urine).
- Bladder Retraining: Through goal-directed processes, bladder retaining works to “re-program” the bladder to reduce the frequency of control issues.
- Bowel Control Problems: A loss of control of the bowels that causes leakage of stool or gas.
- Constipation: Difficulty passing bowel movements or having bowel movements less than every three days.
- Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder.
- Cystocele: Displacement of the bladder into the vaginal canal due to vaginal wall weakness, also known as dropped bladder.
- Dysuria: Painful urination.
- Enterocele: A condition where the top of the vagina is weakened, causing it to bulge into the small intestine.
- Fecal Incontinence: The accidental leakage of stool or gas.
- Hysterectomy: The surgical removal of the uterus, typically performed through the vagina, an abdominal incision, or laparoscopy.
- Kegels: Exercises to strengthen the muscles and nerves of the pelvic floor to improve urinary incontinence.
- Laparoscopy: This surgery technique uses a camera and scope to allow the surgeon to make small incisions that allow for quicker recovery.
- Mixed Urinary Incontinence: A combination of both stress and urge urinary incontinence.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Surgical techniques, such as laparoscopy or robotic surgery, that reduce the impact and recovery following surgery.
- Nerve Stimulation: Electrically stimulating the nerves that control the bladder to improve symptoms of urinary incontinence.
- Pelvic Floor: The group of muscles in the lower pelvis that support the bladder, vagina, uterus, and rectum.
- Pelvic Floor Disorders: The group of disorders that affect the pelvic floor, such as Pelvic Organ Prolapse, Urinary Incontinence, and Bowel Control.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse: This disorder is very common and occurs when there is weakness or damage to the support of the pelvic floor. This causes the pelvic organs to fall downward; symptoms include loss of bladder or bowel control, urinary frequency, or bowel movement issues.
- Rectocele: Displacement of part of the rectum into the vaginal canal due to weakness in the vaginal wall.
- Stress Urinary Incontinence: The involuntary leakage of urine during exercise, physical activity, coughing, sneezing, or other body movements that put stress on the bladder.
- Urethra: The short tube that allows urine to pass through the body.
- Urge Urinary Incontinence: The involuntary loss of urine accompanied by a sudden sense of needing to go to the restroom and the inability to get there in time.
- Uterine Prolapse: A drop of the uterus from its normal position.
- Vaginal Atrophy: The thinning of the vaginal lining, typically caused by decreased oxygen levels.
Becoming familiar with some of these terms will help you to understand your treatment process even better. While your doctors will be happy to answer any questions you may have, knowing some of the common vocabulary will help you discuss your issues and concerns more clearly. As your worldwide destination for unrivaled expertise and care, the doctors at Miklos and Moore Urogynecology will ensure that you’re thrilled with your experience every step of the way. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!