Urogynecologist vs OB/GYN: What’s the Difference

Urogynecologist vs OB/GYN: What’s the Difference?

Do I Need an OB/GYN or a Urogynecologist?

Many women experiencing pelvic pressure, urinary leakage, pelvic organ prolapse, overactive bladder symptoms, or recurrent urinary tract infections wonder whether they should see their OB/GYN or a urogynecologist.

The answer depends on the condition being treated.

While OB/GYNs play a vital role in women’s healthcare, urogynecologists receive additional fellowship training focused specifically on pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and reconstructive pelvic surgery.

Understanding the differences between these specialties can help women choose the provider best suited to their needs.

What Is an OB/GYN?

An OB/GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist) specializes in:

Obstetrics

Care related to:

• Pregnancy
• Labor and delivery
• Prenatal care
• Postpartum care

Gynecology

Care related to:

• Annual exams
• Pap smears
• Birth control
• Menopause
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• General gynecologic conditions

OB/GYNs provide comprehensive women’s healthcare and are often the first physician women consult when experiencing pelvic floor symptoms.

What Is a Urogynecologist?

A urogynecologist is an OB/GYN who completes additional fellowship training in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS).

After completing a four-year OB/GYN residency, urogynecologists spend additional years receiving specialized training focused on:

• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary incontinence
• Overactive bladder
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Reconstructive pelvic surgery
• Vaginal mesh complications
• Complex revision surgery

This advanced training allows urogynecologists to focus almost exclusively on disorders affecting the female pelvic floor.

Conditions Commonly Treated by an OB/GYN

Many common women’s health conditions are appropriately treated by an OB/GYN.

These may include:

• Routine gynecologic care
• Menstrual disorders
• Birth control counseling
• Pregnancy care
• Menopause management
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Cervical screening

For many women, their OB/GYN serves as their primary women’s healthcare provider.

Conditions Commonly Treated by a Urogynecologist

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when support structures weaken and allow pelvic organs to descend into the vaginal canal.

Common forms include:

• Bladder prolapse (cystocele)
• Rectocele
• Uterine prolapse
• Vaginal vault prolapse
• Enterocele

Urinary Incontinence

Symptoms may include:

• Leakage when coughing
• Leakage when sneezing
• Leakage during exercise
• Urgency incontinence
• Mixed incontinence

Overactive Bladder

Symptoms often include:

• Urinary urgency
• Frequent urination
• Nighttime urination
• Urgency-related leakage

Recurrent Prolapse

Women who have undergone previous prolapse surgery may seek specialized evaluation if symptoms return.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor disorders can affect:

• Bladder function
• Bowel function
• Sexual function
• Pelvic support

Vaginal Mesh Complications

Some women seek consultation for mesh exposure, erosion, pain, or other complications following previous pelvic surgery.

When Should You See a Urogynecologist?

Women often benefit from consultation with a urogynecologist when they experience:

A Vaginal Bulge

A sensation that something is falling out or protruding from the vagina may indicate pelvic organ prolapse.

Persistent Urinary Leakage

Women who continue experiencing urinary incontinence despite conservative treatment may benefit from specialist evaluation.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

Pelvic floor disorders can sometimes contribute to recurrent bladder symptoms.

Previous Failed Surgery

Women who have undergone prior prolapse or incontinence surgery often seek evaluation when symptoms persist or return.

Complex Pelvic Floor Symptoms

Multiple pelvic floor symptoms occurring together may require specialized assessment.

Why Do OB/GYNs Refer Patients to Urogynecologists?

Many OB/GYNs routinely refer patients to urogynecologists when:

• Prolapse is present
• Surgery may be needed
• Symptoms are complex
• Previous treatments have failed
• Specialized testing is required
• Revision surgery is being considered

This collaboration helps ensure patients receive the most appropriate care for their condition.

Why Women Choose Dr. John Miklos and Dr. Robert Moore

Dr. John Miklos and Dr. Robert Moore are fellowship-trained urogynecologists whose practice focuses exclusively on Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.

For more than two decades, they have dedicated their careers to treating:

• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary incontinence
• Recurrent prolapse
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Vaginal mesh complications
• Complex reconstructive pelvic conditions

Many women seek consultation because of their experience evaluating patients with advanced pelvic floor disorders and previous failed treatments.

Advanced Fellowship Training

Both physicians completed specialized fellowship training in:

• Urogynecology
• Female pelvic medicine
• Reconstructive vaginal surgery
• Pelvic floor reconstruction
• Minimally invasive surgery

Experience with Complex Cases

Their practice frequently evaluates women experiencing:

• Advanced prolapse
• Recurrent prolapse
• Failed prolapse surgery
• Persistent urinary incontinence
• Mesh complications

Research and Education

Dr. Miklos and Dr. Moore have contributed extensively to:

• Medical publications
• Surgical education
• Physician training
• Pelvic floor research

Their commitment to advancing pelvic floor medicine has helped establish their practice as a destination for women seeking specialized care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a urogynecologist better than an OB/GYN?

Not necessarily. Both specialties serve important roles. Urogynecologists receive additional fellowship training specifically focused on pelvic floor disorders and reconstructive surgery.

Can my OB/GYN treat prolapse?

Many OB/GYNs diagnose and manage prolapse. Women with more advanced prolapse or those considering surgery may be referred to a urogynecologist.

Do I need a referral to see a urogynecologist?

Referral requirements vary depending on insurance plans.

What is the difference between a urogynecologist and a urologist?

A urogynecologist specializes in female pelvic floor disorders, while a urologist treats urinary tract conditions in both men and women.

When should I see a urogynecologist for urinary incontinence?

Women who continue experiencing urinary leakage despite conservative treatments often benefit from specialist evaluation.

Can a urogynecologist perform prolapse surgery?

Yes. Fellowship-trained urogynecologists receive advanced training in pelvic organ prolapse repair and reconstructive pelvic surgery.

Serving Women Throughout Atlanta and North Georgia

Patients travel to Miklos & Moore from:

• Atlanta
• Alpharetta
• Roswell
• Johns Creek
• Sandy Springs
• Milton
• Buckhead
• Brookhaven
• Duluth
• Suwanee
• Marietta
• Kennesaw
• Woodstock
• Canton
• Cumming
• Gainesville
• Lawrenceville
• Smyrna
• Decatur
• East Cobb

Many women also travel from throughout Georgia and the Southeast seeking specialized pelvic floor care.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, or other pelvic floor symptoms, consultation with a fellowship-trained urogynecologist can help clarify your diagnosis and treatment options.

Dr. John Miklos and Dr. Robert Moore proudly serve women throughout Atlanta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, and communities across Georgia seeking expert pelvic floor care.