Incontinence & Pelvic Health

OB/GYN

If you are experiencing symptoms like pain, discomfort or incontinence related to your pelvic organs or bladder - it can be hard to talk about, even with your provider. However, many pelvic health conditions can be treated by your gynecologist or a urogynecologist (a gynecologist with a specialization in women’s pelvic health conditions).

It’s important to talk to a professional to get the diagnosis and treatment you need, and start feeling more like yourself again.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

As women age, there may be a gradual loss of elasticity and muscle tone in the pelvic floor, which is made up of the muscles and tissues that support your pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus and rectum. Over time, this can lead to prolapse, which means your pelvic organs may drop or slip into the vagina. This can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the organ(s) affected. Though these changes are normal, they are also treatable.

Disorders related to pelvic organ prolapse include:
 

  • Cystocele, also known as dropped bladder, is the most common type of pelvic organ prolapse.
  • Rectocele occurs when the rectum drops into, or out of, the vagina.
  • Uterine prolapse happens when the uterus drops down into or bulges out of the vagina.

What are the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse?

Prolapse can cause a visible bulge or create a feeling of pressure, fullness or as if something is coming out of the vagina. It may cause discomfort during intercourse or difficulty when inserting tampons. Incontinence or difficulty with bowel movements are other possible symptoms.

What are the treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse?

The treatments for pelvic health disorders range from self-care and pelvic floor physical therapy, to minimally invasive and/or traditional surgeries. We'll work with you to design a treatment plan that addresses your needs and gets you back to living your fullest life.

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, talk to your gynecologist or find a urogynecologist now.
 

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Incontinence

What is Incontinence?

Incontinence is a condition that includes both urinary incontinence (the loss of bladder control) and fecal incontinence (the inability to control bowel movements). Both urinary and fecal incontinence are more common than you think – but that does not mean it is a necessary part of aging. Over time, incontinence can chip away at your quality of life – limiting your clothing choices, activities and intimacy habits.
 

Types of Incontinence and their Symptoms

There are two main types of urinary incontinence:

  • Stress incontinence, which means you cannot stop urine from leaking. It can be caused by coughing, laughing or other activities.
  • Urge incontinence, sometimes called overactive bladder, which is the feeling of having to “go” too often.  

There are two main types of fecal incontinence:

  • Fecal urge incontinence means you know that you have to go, but simply can’t stop it or make it to the toilet in time.
  • Passive fecal incontinence is the passing of stool or mucus without being aware of it.

Both urinary and fecal incontinence can be treated. If you think you may suffer from urinary incontinence, take our incontinence self-assessment now.

Treatment of Incontinence

Depending on the severity of your condition and your medical history, treatment may range from diet and lifestyle changes, to over-the-counter drugs, physical therapy, and minimally invasive or traditional surgeries. We’ll ensure that you have a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and we’ll keep working with you until you’ve achieved a satisfactory solution.

 
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Cystitis and Bladder Pain Syndrome

What are Interstitial Cystitis and Bladder Pain Syndrome?

Interstitial cystitis (IC) and bladder pain syndrome (BPS) are often grouped together as IC/BPS and are considered a chronic bladder health issue. The conditions are characterized by pain and pressure in the bladder and urinary tract, and though it can affect both men and women, it is more common in women.

What are the symptoms of IC/BPS?

Symptoms of IC/BPS vary, and are often associated with other conditions. For that reason, diagnosis often comes through testing for other conditions and ruling them out. Potential symptoms include:

  • Pain in the bladder area, sometimes with pressure, which may increase with a full bladder
  • Frequent need to urinate, day and night
  • Urgency to urinate that persists, regardless of bladder fullness
  • Pain during intercourse

Some patients find that stress and diet may make symptoms worse. Over time, the symptoms of IC/BPS can negatively impact a woman’s life. Thankfully there is treatment available.

Treatment of IC/BPS

The goal of treatment for IC/BPS is the relief of symptoms, and all treatments take time to be fully effective. Depending on your symptoms and health history, treatments may include: lifestyle and diet changes, physical therapy (PT), medication, minimally invasive treatments or injections.

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Why Choose Virginia Mason Franciscan Health?

Expert Care  

Specialists in Pelvic Health

Our gynecologists and urogynecologists are board certified in the treatment of pelvic conditions that affect women.

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Convenience 

Multiple Locations

We have multiple specialty care locations throughout the Puget Sound to make ongoing care easier for you.

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Meet Cherry 

A Bladder Sling Patient Story

Cherry speaks candidly about her journey from incontinence back to bladder health.

Watch Cherry's Story
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Your Biggest Health Questions, Answered

Having your baby with CHI Franciscan Health

You’ve got questions, but they aren’t always easy to ask. This guide answers some of women’s biggest health concerns, such as:

  • What’s a “normal” menstrual cycle?
  • What should I expect during menopause?
  • Am I the only one with incontinence?
  • What’s the difference between a traditional and minimally invasive hysterectomy?
  • What screenings should I get at my age?
  • How do I choose the right provider for well-woman care?

For definitive answers and treatment plans, of course you’ll want to see your gynecologist or other care provider. But this guide will help you start to understand the health issues most important to you, and better prepare you for your next appointment.