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URINARY COMPLAINTS AND PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

In addition to being a qualified Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Jakub Jagiellowicz is currently completing his subspecialty training in Urogynaecology and thus has a special interest in Urogynaecology and Pelvic Floor disorders.

Women who have a history of urinary tract infections, have had interstitial cystitis or have given birth to a child vaginally should also see a urologist or specialist such as Dr Jagiellowicz as a precaution.

PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and other tissues which form a hammock, from the tailbone at the back to the pubic bone in front. These muscles support the organs in the pelvis such as the bladder, uterus, rectum and vagina, playing a vital role in bladder and bowel control, as well as sexual function.

These pelvic floor muscles can be weakened or damaged by injuries to the pelvis, menopause, ageing of connective tissues, prior surgery, pelvic radiation, heavy lifting or repeated actions of straining, but most pelvic floor disorders are caused by complications from natural vaginal birth.

The three main types of pelvic floor disorders are:

  • Urinary incontinence, or lack of bladder control
  • Faecal incontinence, or lack of bowel control
  • Pelvic organ prolapse, a condition in which the uterus, bladder and bowel drop into the vagina

Women with pelvic floor disorders may experience the following signs and symptoms::

  • Urinary problems, such as leaking, frequent urination, sudden and intense urges to urinate, painful urination or incomplete emptying of the bladder
  • A heavy feeling or a sensation of pressure in the vagina or rectum
  • The sensation that something is falling from the vagina
  • Pain or pressure in the abdominal area
  • Backache in the lower back
  • Constipation, straining or pain during bowel movements
  • Discomfort or pain during intercourse
  • Muscle spasms in the pelvis

URINARY CONDITIONS

Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men are simply due to the fact that the urethra is shorter and there is closer proximity to the anus. In fact, women have a lifetime risk of over 50 per cent of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Urinary tract infections are generally caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. While most UTIs can be treated easily, when left untreated, acute urinary tract infections can affect the bladder and even the kidneys. Recurrent or chronic urinary tract infections are thus more serious as they can lead to kidney damage.

The most common urinary complaints are dysuria (painful urination), increased urinary frequency, urinary incontinence and painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis. Women with urinary complaints may experience the following signs and symptoms:

  • Leaking urine
  • A strong and frequent urge to urinate
  • Incomplete emptying of the bladder
  • Cloudy or pink coloured urine
  • Strong-smelling urine
  • Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle aches
  • Abdominal pain
  • Pain in the lower or upper back
  • Fever, shaking, chills and fatigue

If you are experiencing these symptoms, Dr Jagiellowicz will do a few tests to identify the cause. This may involve a physical exam, intrarectal or vaginal examination and ultrasound. In addition, depending on your symptoms, a urine test and urodynamic study may be necessary. Urinary complaints treatment may include antibiotics and vaginal estrogen therapy if you have reached menopause.

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“The first wealth is health”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson.

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