Ochsner's urogynecologists are specially trained in the evaluation and treatment of conditions that affect the female pelvic organs. From prolapse to incontinence, our physicians can offer the most advanced symptom relief and treatments available to women today.
What is Urogynecology?
Urogynecology is a subspecialty of gynecology that treats acquired or congenital (born with) problems related to the female pelvic floor, pelvic organ anatomy or or urinary tract function specifically for women. This includes urinary & fecal incontinence, pelvic organ, prolapse genitourinary fistulas, and congenital female genital anomalies.
What is a Urogynecologist?
A Urogynecologist has completed specialty training in Obstetrics & Gynecology, followed by a Fellowship (additional subspecialty training) in the field of complex pelvic problems as noted above.
What problems does a Urogynecologist treat?
Urinary Incontinence
Some women may have trouble leaking urine with common activities such as sneezing, laughing, and coughing. This is known as stress incontinence. Another type of incontinence is known as urge incontinence. This occurs when a woman feels the sudden urge to urinate. Often, she is not able to make it to the bathroom before getting wet. These are the two most common types of incontinence. A urogynecologist can address these issues and discuss your treatment options.
Pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse is the descent or "drooping" of the pelvic organs. A woman may feel like everything is "falling out". This could be the uterus, front or back vaginal walls or top the vagina after a hysterectomy. This is a very common problem that usually occurs as a woman ages. It can be treated in several different ways, including surgical and nonsurgical options.
Other Conditions treated:
Over-active bladder -Urinary frequency & urgency.
Fistulas -"passageway" or connection between pelvic organs which are abnormal
- Vesicovaginal (bladder/vagina)
- Vesicouterine (bladder/uterus)
- Vesicocutaneous (bladder/abdominal wall)
- Rectovaginal (rectum/vagina)
- Urethral reconstruction (fistula/diverticulum)
Congenital anomalies
- Vaginal agenesis (absence)
- Imperforate hymen
- Vaginal septum
Treatments
Urogynecologists offer a range of treatment options for patients, including conservative non-surgical, medication, and surgical options for each condition as appropriate.
Conservative treatments
- Pelvic floor re-education
- Biofeedback
- Placement of pessary (internal brace)
Medical treatment for
- Overactive bladder syndrome
- Stress urinary incontinence
Surgical treatments
- Vaginal reconstructive surgery
- Abdominal reconstructive surgery
- Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) reconstructive surgery
- Pubovaginal slings
- Sacral nerve stimulation
- Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery
To schedule an appointment, call the Section of Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at (504) 842-4155.