When it comes to female concerns, it can be difficult to know where to turn for support. For day-to-day issues including menses, fertility, birth control, and the overall health of our vagina, we usually consult a gynecologist. But what if we have a problem that doesn’t fit into one of those categories? Maybe we’ve discovered a vaginal bulge or had incontinence.

In certain cases, a urogynecologist, a highly specialist physician, maybe the best person to see to diagnose and treat the condition. We may immediately dismiss the idea of seeing a urogynecologist if we already have a gynecologist we like. But let us not get our hopes up just yet. Women who have problems with their pelvic floor may find that consulting with a urogynecologist can be extremely beneficial.

What exactly is the distinction?

Urologists and gynecologists are two medical disciplines that share some similarities but are fundamentally different.

Gynecologists are doctors that specialize in women’s reproductive health. Women often visit these doctors for annual well-woman exams, which include pap smears, STD screening, vaginal infection tests, and overall female anatomical health. These doctors can also assist us with family planning, offering birth control alternatives, and if the gynecologist is also an obstetrician, they will monitor us during the pregnancy. Although some gynecologists will treat modest prolapse and incontinence, these issues are usually best handled by a urogynecologist.

A urogynecologist is a doctor that specializes in pelvic floor problems. Incontinence and prolapse are the most common problems in this category. Many women experience these symptoms following vaginal deliveries, but there are additional variables that can contribute to the development of these issues, such as genetics and chronic constipation straining. Women with prolapse may experience heaviness or pressure in the vaginal area, as well as an actual vaginal bulge in severe cases. The pelvic floor anatomy has weakened as a result of the aforesaid factors, and a urogynecologist attempts to repair it.

Visit a Gynaecologist for These Reasons

The following are some common signs that patients should see a gynecologist:

• Bleeding through the skin (bleeding between menstrual cycles)
• Increasing vaginal discharge and/or an alteration in the color of the discharge
• Itching, swelling, or pain in the vaginal area are all signs of a problem. 
• Low libido
• Vaginal lumps or sores
• Periods of suffering
• Discomfort or pain during sex
• A vaginal odor that is unusual

Reasons to Consult with a Urologist

The following are some common signs that patients should see a urologist:

• Urine with blood
• Urinating causes burning or discomfort.
• Urination difficulties
• Urinating frequently
• Urinary incontinence (accidental leakage of urine)
• Pelvic discomfort

Navigating challenges that develop as a woman can be frightening, and patients may wonder who they should turn to for help. Patients can always approach their gynecologist if the reasons are unclear, and they can usually recommend coming in for evaluation or referring for further treatment. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to contact Katy Women’s Pelvic Health, as we can assist you in getting properly evaluated in a timely manner.