What Is a Urogynecologist?
A urogynecologist is a physician who specializes in Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery. After completing medical school and residency, urogynecologists complete an additional fellowship focused entirely on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders — either a 3-year fellowship after an OB/GYN residency or a 2-year fellowship after a urology residency. This makes them the most extensively trained specialists in conditions like urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and overactive bladder.
What Sets Them Apart
The additional fellowship training gives urogynecologists expertise in:
- All types of urinary incontinence — stress, urge, mixed, and complex cases
- Pelvic organ prolapse — both conservative management and advanced surgical repair
- Overactive bladder — including advanced therapies like Botox and sacral neuromodulation
- Fecal incontinence — bowel control problems
- Complex pelvic floor disorders — conditions involving multiple overlapping issues
- Advanced pelvic surgery — including minimally invasive and robotic approaches
- Urodynamic testing — specialized bladder function testing
My fellowship at the University of Louisville was three years of intensive focus on the pelvic floor — surgery, diagnostics, research, and patient care. That depth of training means I’ve seen the full spectrum of pelvic floor conditions and have the tools to address them.
When to See a Urogynecologist
You might benefit from seeing a urogynecologist if:
- You have bladder leakage that affects your daily life
- You feel pressure, bulging, or heaviness in your pelvic area
- You have urgency or frequency that doesn’t respond to basic treatment
- Your OB/GYN has suggested specialty referral for a pelvic floor condition
- You need surgical consultation for prolapse or incontinence
- You’ve had previous pelvic surgery that hasn’t fully resolved your symptoms
- You have complex or overlapping pelvic floor symptoms
The Consultation
A urogynecologist visit is similar to a gynecology visit — thorough but respectful. You’ll discuss your symptoms in detail, have a focused physical examination, and develop a treatment plan together. The goal is always to find the approach that best fits your needs and goals.
The word “doctor” comes from the Latin word “docere,” meaning “to teach.” I want every patient to leave understanding their condition better than when they arrived. When you understand what’s happening and why, you can make informed decisions about your care.
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