Do you experience problems with your pelvic area, or have you seen a loved one struggle with a pelvic area issue and wondered which medical speciality focuses on women’s pelvic health? If so, a urogynaecologist is the women’s health specialist you should consult.
Urogynaecology combines gynaecology and urology to help address the health conditions unique to the women’s pelvic organs and the urinary system. If you wish to read more on this specialized field or know when to see a female urogynae in Singapore, we created this guide for you.
This guide highlights the common problems your female urogynae can help with. It also touches on when to see a urogynaecologist, among other basics. Read on!
What Problems Does a Urogynecologist Treat?
First, you will most likely get a referral from your primary care physician to see a urogynecologist if they feel that you need to see this specialist. If the intricate reason for the referral wasn’t clarified, you may wonder, “Why would someone see a urogynecologist?”
Now, you will need to see a urogynecologist if you’re grappling with;
- Urinary incontinence that doesn’t improve despite medication
- A pelvic prolapse
- Problems emptying the bladder or rectum or
- If you need specialized surgical intervention
Urogynaecologists offer personalized care and treatments for the effective management of such issues. Here are a quick summary of a few more conditions that may warrant an appointment with your female urogynae in Singapore;
1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):
- Infection in the urinary tract caused by bacteria
- Common causes include bacteria entering the urethra and spreading to the bladder
- Symptoms may include frequent urination, a burning sensation, and cloudy urine. UTIs can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing, impacting daily life.
2. Urinary Retention
- Inability to empty the bladder fully
- It can result from bladder muscle dysfunction or blockage
- Patients may experience difficulty starting or maintaining urination. This may lead to discomfort and potential complications. The impact may range from physical discomfort to emotional frustration
3. Fistulas
- Abnormal connections between organs, such as the bladder, rectum, or vagina
- Causes include childbirth complications, surgery, or inflammatory diseases
- Fistulas can lead to urine or stool leakage. This may cause physical discomfort and emotional distress due to social implications and impact on quality of life.
4. Overactive Bladder
- This condition is characterized by a frequent, sudden urge to urinate
- Causes may include bladder muscle problems or neurological conditions
- You may experience a frequent need to urinate, urgency, and potential leakage
5. Interstitial Cystitis
- This is a chronic bladder condition causing bladder pain and pressure.
- The exact cause is unknown. However, it may involve inflammation or defects in the bladder lining.
- It causes pelvic pain, frequent urination, and a reduced quality of life.
6. Faecal Incontinence
- This is the inability to control bowel movements, resulting in involuntary leakage
- Causes can include weakened anal sphincter muscles or nerve damage
- This condition cause challenges in controlling bowel movements, which may also cause physical discomfort, embarrassment, and social anxiety.
What Happens During an Urogynaecology Exam?
The first visit to your urogynae in Singapore can be uncomfortable. This is normal though.The specialist can help you get comfortable.
During your urogynaecology exam, your urogynaecologist will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your specific concerns. It is after this evaluation that they will develop an appropriate treatment plan to address your condition. The urogynaecology exam typically includes the following steps:
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History and Physical Examination
You will have an interview and consultation with your doctor at the beginning of your appointment to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and any concerns you may have. Provide detailed information to help your doctor better understand your condition
Following the consultation, a physical exam will be performed. This exam may include a pelvic exam, where your doctor will assess the health of your pelvic organs, muscles, and tissues.
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Urine Examination
To evaluate your urinary system, urine analysis and culture will be conducted. This involves providing a urine sample to be tested for signs of infection, inflammation, blood, or kidney problems.
Your doctor will be keen to identify any underlying issues in the urinary tract. This is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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Cystoscopy
In some cases, your doctor may recommend a cystoscopy. This is an in-office test to directly visualize the inside of your bladder using a small camera inserted through the urethra.
This procedure helps detect abnormalities such as inflammation, stones, or tumours. Although it may sound uncomfortable, the procedure is usually well-tolerated and provides valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
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Multi-channel Urodynamics
Urodynamic assessment examines the performance of your bladder. Especially beneficial for women encountering urinary incontinence or frequent urination, this set of in-clinic examinations involves the measurement of different factors, including bladder pressure and urine flow rate, to gauge the effectiveness of your bladder. These assessments offer valuable understanding into the origins of your symptoms and contribute to shaping decisions regarding your treatment.
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Electrodiagnostic Testing (EMG) of the Pelvic Floor
To evaluate the nerve function of your pelvic floor, your doctor may recommend electrodiagnostic testing, also known as EMG. During this procedure, the pelvic floor muscles’ responses to small electrical impulses are measured.
EMG helps assess the coordination and strength of the pelvic floor muscles, which play a important role in bladder and bowel control. This information helps determine the appropriate treatment approach for your condition.
Based on your particular condition, your medical practitioner might also suggest supplementary examinations like anal manometry, defecography, anal ultrasound, or pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests provide further insights into the function and structure of the pelvic organs and aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The goal of the exam is to thoroughly evaluate your condition, offer a precise diagnosis, and recommend the most suitable treatment options for you.
Closing Thoughts
Urogynaecologists address an awful lot of urological and gynaecological problems that can significantly impact your quality of life as a woman. They’re specifically trained and very skilled when it comes to providing expert care and tailored treatment for these issues.
So, if you or a loved one is grappling with urological or gynaecological issues that aren’t improving, make an effort to connect with your urogynae in Singapore for effective treatment. In Singapore, DR. NG KAI LYN and her team are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care.
So, don’t let these problems continue to impact you or your loved one’s daily life. Take the first step towards finding relief and schedule a consultation with DR. NG KAI LYN today.