Urogynaecology at our practice in Nicosia
What does the term urogynecology include?
Urogynecology is a specialized field within gynecology that deals with disorders of the pelvic floor and urinary tract in women. This includes bladder problems like urinary incontinence (involuntary urine loss) and pelvic floor weakness. Problems with the uterus and vaginal area, such as pelvic organ prolapse, also fall within the scope of urogynecology.
What are the most common urogynaecological symptoms?
- Urinary Incontinence. Four types are distinguished. After physical activity (e.g. coughing or exercise), acquired, due to overfilling and mixed type..
- Pelvic Floor Weakness. The inability of the muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor area to support the pelvic organs results in their prolapse into the vaginal area. This is most commonly seen in multiparous women who have given birth usually and after menopause. Based on the organs involved, we distinguish prolapse of the bladder (Cystocele), uterus, and bowel (Enterocele and Rectocele).
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections. Because of the inability to empty the bladder completely, stasis of urine leads to the development of urinary tract infections, which can, over time, spread to the kidney area and lead to pyelonephritis.
- Uterine or vaginal prolapse. In advanced pelvic organ prolapse, women are often unable to sufficiently empty their bladder or bowel.
Possible treatment options may include
Accurate diagnosis is pivotal for effective symptom management. Primary clinical diagnoses include a) pelvic organ prolapse and b) urination problems. Given the frequent coexistence of these conditions, it is imperative to evaluate the extent to which clinical findings contribute to symptoms and tailor the treatment strategy accordingly.
Conservative Therapies.
This includes targeted pelvic floor exercises (physiotherapy), behavioral changes, lifestyle adjustments, and pessaries.
Medication.
In cases of acquired urine loss, specific medications may be used to improve the symptomology.
Invasive Procedures.
For organ prolapse, techniques targeting anatomical restoration encompass transvaginal and/or endoscopic (laparoscopic) procedures. In cases where symptoms exclusively impact the bladder without apparent prolapse, treatment options range from mesh insertion (TVT and TVT-O) to botox or bulkamid injections in the urethral area.
Prevention
We will be happy to advise you on ways to reduce the risk of pelvic floor and urinary tract problems.
Diagnosis and treatment
In our practice, we conduct a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the underlying causes of your concerns. This involves specialized examinations and, if necessary, imaging procedures. Dr. Roukoudis will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and complaints based on the diagnosis.
Our approach
Beyond the yearly gynecological examination, we explore potential urogynecological symptoms. With our expertise and a purpose-built questionnaire, we aim to discern the nature of your conditions, allowing us to craft a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.
Dr. Roukoudis served as a consultant (Oberarzt) at the urogynecology centers of Hameln (AGUB III) and Fürth (AGUB I) in Germany. He holds certification from the German Urogynaecology Authority (Kontinenz Beratungsstelle).
