Overactive bladder, bladder weakness, bladder infection or organ dropping are common problems among women – however, very few women talk openly about them and do not trust their doctor, even though the above-mentioned symptoms can cause a high degree of suffering and impose significant restrictions on everyday life.
The field of urogynaecology is an important branch of gynaecology. Urogynaecology deals with the different forms of urinary incontinence as well as dropping or prolapses of the rectum, uterus, vagina and urinary bladder. A urogynaecological consultation therefore focuses on problems of urinary incontinence – i.e. the involuntary release of urine in connection with physical exertion or when laughing, coughing, sneezing – and the dropping of the female genitals (e.g. the dropping or prolapse of the uterus and/or the vagina).
However, even during urogynaecological consultations, many of those affected do not have the courage to talk openly about their problem. On the contrary, they prefer to avoid certain situations or even give up their hobbies because of these issues. This is mainly due to the fact that most women feel that they are “not really ill,” and therefore cannot be helped. However, this is not true, as there are many effective therapies that can help women suffering from these medical problems – regardless of their age.
The risk of urinary incontinence increases in women with age. However, urinary incontinence can also occur at a younger age, for example childbirth,surgery or an accident.
The following forms of urinary incontinence are known:
There are various ways to treat urinary incontinence:
The following symptoms indicate a lowering of the uterus, urinary bladder or rectum:
The main causes of urogenital prolapse are age, number of pregnancies, menopause, excess weight, chronic constipation, previous pelvic surgery, uterine fibromas, frequent carrying of excessively heavy loads
In the event of a urogenital prolapse, various treatments are performed depending on the stage of the disease:
A dropping of the pelvic floor (medical term: descensus) is when a woman’s genitals – i.e. the uterus and vagina – have dropped into an abnormally downward position. If the uterus protrudes completely in front of the entrance to the vagina, this is called a (uterine) prolapse.
Targeted pelvic floor training – preferably under expert guidance – with special exercises to strengthen the muscles can help to alleviate the symptoms. Weight reduction is also recommended for overweight women.