Urogynecology Services
Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are a group of conditions that affect the pelvic floor. Some common conditions are urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) and/or pelvic organ prolapse (loss of vaginal support).
A urogynecologist is a surgeon with specialized training in the care of women with pelvic floor disorders. We are proud to work with Alaska’s only two board-certified urogynecologists.
Dr. Mitchell-Springer and Dr. Wang are devoted to helping you improve your quality of life by treating your incontinence or prolapse issues. We offer the broadest range of treatment options in the state, from conservative management to the most technically advanced surgeries. Our urogynecologists will work with you to find an approach that works best for your lifestyle and meets your goals.
Bladder Control
If you or someone you know struggles with loss of bladder control, you are not alone. Bladder control problems are important quality of life issues. Many women will restrict their activities or fluid consumption because of concerns about leakage.
The most common types of bladder control issues are:
- Stress incontinence: leakage of urine that occurs at the same time as physical activities that increase abdominal pressure such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, and exercising
- Urgency incontinence: inability to hold urine long enough to reach the restroom
- Frequent and/or urgent urination during the day and night
Bladder control issues may sometimes be complex. We will discuss your symptoms in detail. Advanced urodynamic testing may be performed, which can be helpful in revealing the underlying cause of your urinary leakage. Depending on the cause of your incontinence, treatment options may include:
- Behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes
- Physical therapy
- Medications
- Surgical correction (usually outpatient)
- Neuromodulator devices
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
Pelvic organ prolapse, or POP, is the dropping of the pelvic organs caused by the loss of normal support of the vagina.
The pelvic floor holds up the pelvic organs, including the vagina, uterus, bladder, urethra, and rectum. If the muscles and connective tissues of the pelvic floor become weakened, the pelvic organs may fall downward. Women may feel or see tissue coming out of the opening of their vagina. Typically, the tissue coming out is from a prolapsing uterus or the walls of the vagina.
Treatment for pelvic organ prolapse depends on the location of the loss of support and the effect on your quality of life. We offer the most extensive surgical experience in the state, almost always with a minimally invasive approach. Depending on your goals, treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy
- Vaginal support devices
- Surgical correction