Many women are familiar with visiting a gynecologist for routine reproductive care or a urologist for bladder issues. However, there is a specialized field of medicine that combines both, called urogynecology. An urogynecologist focuses specifically on diagnosing, managing and treating pelvic floor disorders. The pelvic floor is a supportive network of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that holds a woman’s pelvic organs in place. When these muscles weaken or suffer damage from childbirth, aging, heavy lifting, genetics or chronic coughing, uncomfortable symptoms can develop that may even become distressing at times.

Although pelvic floor disorders are common, many women assume these symptoms are just a normal part of aging or something they simply have to live with. These conditions are highly treatable, and early evaluation can often prevent symptoms from worsening. Knowing what signs to look for can help you decide when to seek care from a urogynecologist.

One of the most frequent reasons to see a urogynecologist is involuntary urine leakage, also known as urinary incontinence. This includes stress incontinence, which is leaking when you cough, sneeze, laugh or exercise, as well as urge incontinence, which is feeling a sudden, overwhelming urge to go that is difficult to control. Another common condition is pelvic organ prolapse, which occurs when the pelvic floor loses its support, causing nearby organs to shift lower and create a bulging with heaviness and/or pressure sensations in the vagina or pelvis. These symptoms often get worse as the day wears on and when you are physically active.

Other subtle signs involve changes in your daily bladder and bowel habits. If you feel the need to empty your bladder more than usual throughout the day and night, experience recurrent urinary tract infections, or struggle to start urination, it is worth discussing these symptoms with a specialist. Similarly, feeling like your bladder never fully empties or having to apply pressure to the vaginal wall to encourage a bowel movement are clear indicators of pelvic floor dysfunction.

These symptoms can be frustrating, even when not experienced constantly, but a urogynecologist can help you find relief and regain your quality of life. Treatment does not always mean surgery. In fact, many pelvic floor disorders can be managed with effective, noninvasive therapies.

Depending on your unique needs, options may include pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles, lifestyle and dietary modifications, medications, or a pessary, which is a small, removable device inserted into the vagina to support prolapsed organs. When conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, highly effective, minimally invasive surgical procedures are also available.

Your pelvic health matters, and you deserve to live without discomfort or the worry of an unexpected urine leak. If you find yourself avoiding activities you enjoy, planning your day around the nearest restroom, or noticing any of these symptoms, do not assume they are simply a part of getting older. Schedule an appointment with a urogynecologist who can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel more comfortable and in control.

Dr. Rony Adam is a urogynecologist seeing patients at the Vanderbilt Center for Women’s Health Cool Springs. He is also Director of the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at Vanderbilt Health.