Urogynecology at UPMC Magee-Womens in Williamsport

Urine leaks, pelvic pain, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common problems for women. UPMC Magee Womens in Williamsport, has urogynecology experts that treat these and other pelvic floor conditions for women of all ages.

The pelvic floor consists of the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs. The pelvic organs are the bladder, vagina, uterus, and rectum.

Conditions We Treat

You may have urine leaks and pelvic pain after childbirth. Or, you may have suffered an injury or illness that weakened the pelvic floor. Incontinence and other pelvic floor disorders can become more frequent and bothersome as you age.

If your pelvic floor problems interfere with daily life — no matter what stage of life you're in — you should see us. Some of the conditions we treat are:

• Stress incontinence. Urine leaks that happen when you laugh, cough, sneeze, or exercise.
• Urge incontinence. Urine leaks that happen along with a strong, sudden "gotta go" feeling.
• Overactive bladder. When the muscles that control your bladder start to squeeze at the wrong time, causing leaks.
• Nocturia. Waking several times a night to urinate.
• Fecal incontinence. Involuntary passing of gas or stool.
• Pelvic organ prolapse. When a pelvic organ drops into or pushes against the vagina. This condition is also known as a dropped bladder or dropped uterus.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections. An infection in any part of the urinary system — bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra.
• Painful bladder syndrome. A chronic condition by which the walls of the bladder become inflamed.
• Urinary retention. A condition by which all the urine doesn't empty from your bladder.
• Pain with intercourse. Pelvic floor problems such as UTIs or pelvic organ prolapse can cause pain during sex.

At your first appointment, the doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms. The appointment will include a pelvic exam. Your doctor will share the diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Why Choose UPMC for Urogynecology?

We are part of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh. We have access to the latest research and treatments for pelvic floor disorders. Your doctor may recommend 1 or more of the following:

• Lifestyle changes. Changes in diet and exercise can have an impact on pelvic floor disorders. Maintaining a healthy weight is key.
• Pelvic floor exercises. Your doctor may recommend Kegels to strengthen your pelvic floor.
• Medication. Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxers or other medication.
• Surgery. We offer minimally invasive surgeries including laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgery for pelvic problems.

At Magee-Womens in Williamsport, we also offer specialized treatments for pelvic floor disorders. They include:

• Botox® treatment. Your doctor may treat an overactive bladder with a Botox® injection. The injection can help calm the nerves in the bladder and decrease the urgent need to urinate.
• Sacral nerve modulation (SNM). Your doctor may recommend SNM for urinary or fecal incontinence. A small, surgically implanted device sends mild electrical stimulation to the nerves at the end of your tailbone. The electrical stimulation improves communication between your pelvic floor muscles and your brain.
• Da Vinci® Surgical System sacral colpopexy. Your doctor may suggest this robot-assisted surgery to treat pelvic organ prolapse. The surgeon sits at a console next to you, guiding tiny robotic instruments. A camera shows a high-definition, 3D-magnified view inside your body.