Urogynecology

What is Urogynecology?

The word urogynecology may be new to many patients, however it is one that’s been used in the medical community since the mid 1990s. Urogynecologists are specialists in the treatment of noncancerous female pelvic floor medicine and reconstructive surgery. There are basic training is in gynecology, with additional training in female urology. They are have extensive training and experience in pelvic floor reconstructive surgery.

What are the advantages of seeing a Urogynecology specialist like Dr. Waterman?

Urogynecologists are physicians with special training in gynecology and female urology. They focus on the evaluation and treatment of a noncancerous conditions involving the female pelvic organs and the supporting muscles and tissues. They are trained in pelvic floor reconstructive surgery. Women who had to see multiple specialists for urinary, reproductive and gastrointestinal problems can now see one. This subspecialty of urogynecology, now known as Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, was created in the 1990s. Current urogynecologists do their five year residency in obstetrics and gynecology and then complete three additional years of training in urogynecology. Dr. Douglas Waterman completed his obstetrics and gynecology training in 1991, before the formal recognition of urogynecology as a subspecialty. He has earned his credentials through surgical trainee ships, mentorships and on-the-job training as well as many subspecialty meetings over the years.

Women who are suffering from painful periods, heavy bleeding, incontinence and/or organ prolapse, ovarian cysts, etc. may in the past have needed to visit several physician specialists seeking a solution. Each physician would then provide a recommended treatment plan to address their particular area of concern. The emergence of urogynecology as a sub-specialty addressing female pelvic floor/incontinence concerns has provided a unique opportunity for the patients of Dr. Waterman’s practice to receive treatment solutions that are targeted to the individual patient’s various pelvic floor health needs and personal situation in the context of a general gynecology practice.

Is a referral needed?

Yes, a referral from your family practitioner or midwife is needed for an appointment with Dr. Waterman.

What concerns can be addressed by a Urogynecology practice?

A urogynecologist like Dr. Waterman has the skill and experience to assess the entire pelvic region including the vagina, uterus, bladder and rectum as well as the muscles, nerves and ligaments that support those systems. Evaluations of the reproductive, urinary and lower gastrointestinal systems are addressed as a whole to ensure patients receive the best possible treatment and outcome.

Concerns for which you or your family practitioner/doctor might think about consulting a urogynecologist like Dr. Waterman include:

Incontinence: loss of bowel or bladder control.
Prolapse: a descent of pelvic organs that may include a dropped uterus, bladder, vagina or rectum.
Pelvic Pain and vulvovaginal disorders: a burning sensation or other uncomfortable pelvic symptoms, including bladder or urethral pain and painful intercourse.
Overactive Bladder: Heightened bladder pressure, a sense of bladder urgency, incontinence or difficulty holding back a full bladder.

What Treatment Options are Available from a Urogynecologist?

A urogynecologist can recommend a variety of therapies to cure or relieve symptoms of prolapse, urinary or fecal incontinence, or other pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms.

Dr. Waterman may advise conservative, non-surgical or surgical therapy depending on your preferences, the severity of your condition and your general health. Conservative options may include medications, pelvic muscle exercises, behavioral and/or dietary modifications and pessaries or vaginal devices, pelvic nerve stimulation, and vaginal laser therapy. Minimally invasive surgical procedures may also be recommended by Dr. Waterman to treat incontinence and prolapse. In all cases, Dr. Waterman will discuss all of the options that are available to treat your specific problem.

*Individual results may vary; not a guarantee