Reconstructive Surgery and Urogynecology

The Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery and Urogynecology Program has been established to diagnose, treat, and educate woman experiencing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Urinary Incontinence. Our expert physicians, nurses, and physical therapists are available to explain the problem you are experiencing, provide support, and assist you in treatment options. Our program offers you the most comprehensive and advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

All diagnostic tests are performed right at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and are interpreted by physicians who specialize in urogynecology.

What is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is a condition in which a person is unable to hold urine and prevent its leakage. It affects women more often than it does men, and most people are too embarrassed to explain their symptoms to a physician. Most often a person suffering from incontinence chooses to rely on absorbent pads or make lifestyle changes to compensate for their problem, not knowing that there are treatment options available.

Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence

• A strong desire to urinate even if the bladder is not full. The desire often occurs simultaneously with pelvic discomfort or pressure, and fear of pain or leakage.
• Urinating more than every two hours or more than seven times in a day.
• Urinating two or more times during sleeping hours.
• A sensation of pain while urinating.
• Wetting the bed while sleeping.

Common Causes
Many possible causes of urinary incontinence exist, a number of which are temporary and can be treated. Urinary tract infections, vaginal irritation or infection, constipation, and various side effects of medicines are some temporary causes of incontinence. However, incontinence can be caused by other circumstances that are not temporary such as:

• Weak muscles that hold the bladder in place.
• A bladder that is weak itself.
• Weak urethra sphincter muscles.
• Bladder muscles that are overactive.
• A blocked urethra.
• A hormone imbalance in women.
• Urinary tract abnormalities.
• Neurologic disorders.
• Physical limitations or immobility.
• Pelvic support problems.

Treatment
Some of the most common ways to treat urinary incontinence are:

• Behavioral Therapy
• Medicines
• Surgery
• Special Devices

What is a Urogynecologist?
A urogynecologist is a physician with a special interest and expertise in loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty urinating or defecating, or have a dropped bladder, fallen womb (prolapsed). The physicians who will treat you through the program at Jersey Shore University Medical Center are urogynecologists who have advanced training and understanding of the conditions affecting a woman's pelvis or bladder.

For more information about the Urogynecology Program at Jersey Shore, call
732-776-2699.