Sometimes, people are surprised to discover that in addition to treating the male reproductive system, urologists treat diseases and conditions in the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract. As such, urology is relevant to both genders in all stages of life.
While there tends to be a focus on men’s urological health, this blog post delves into the importance of urology for women’s health. Take a look at five conditions which impact women.
Urinary tract infections / bladder infections
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system, caused by bacteria that has entered the urinary tract. Most women will develop a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives. Women with a UTI may have pain or burning when they urinate. They may also feel a sudden urge to go to the bathroom, but then have trouble urinating.
Overactive bladder
Overactive bladder (OAB) is the name for a group of urinary symptoms with its most common symptom being a sudden, uncontrolled need or urge to urinate or the need to pass urine many times during the day and night. Between 30 and 40% of people will experience symptoms of an overactive bladder at some point in their life. Treatments range from medication or nerve stimulation to Botox injections or surgery.
Incontinence
Millions of women experience involuntary loss of urine, called urinary incontinence. While urinary incontinence occurs more often in older women than in young women it can affect women of all ages and from all walks of life. Incontinence can be treated with a variety of approaches, depending on the severity of the condition as well as the patient’s individual needs.
Pelvic floor prolapse
Pelvic floor prolapse occurs when the upper portion of the vagina loses its normal shape and sags or drops down into the vaginal canal or outside of the vaginal opening. There are several types of pelvic floor prolapse, including bladder, rectum, small bowel and uterus. While this condition can be fixed in most cases, its important to see a urologist quickly to ensure the success of treatment.
Interstititial Cystitus
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is long-term inflammation of the bladder wall, also called painful bladder syndrome. Its symptoms are very similar to a urinary tract infection, such as urinary urgency and pelvic pain, but lack an identifiable cause such as bacterial infection. IC impacts approximately 12 percent of women.
Urologists can be the key to solving any of the women’s health issues discussed above. It is essential to become well-informed and educated regarding the options and treatment methods available to you. If you have any questions regarding urology and women’s health, or would like to book an appointment, please feel free to contact or call Dr Arianayagam’s office on 1300 307 990 and his staff will be able to assist.
