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A urogynecologist or female pelvic medicine & reconstructive pelvic surgeon is a doctor who has special training in caring for women with pelvic floor disorders. Typically, a urogynecologist has completed a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. This is followed by additional training in the evaluation and treatment of conditions that affect the support and function of the female pelvic organs and pelvic floor.
Dr. Sara I. Diaz Valentin, MD, MSc, FPMRS, FACOG is fellowship trained in the first 3 year accredited program in the country, and a board certified female pelvic medicine & reconstructive surgeon. She is assisted by Mary Horsfall, NP.
A urogynecologist can recommend a variety of therapies to cure or relieve symptoms of pelvic floor disorders. You should choose the one that works best for your lifestyle and meets your goals. Sometimes simple changes and interventions can have a significant impact on daily quality of life. Dr. Diaz may advise conservative (non-surgical) or surgical therapy depending on your wishes, the severity of your condition and your general health. Conservative options include medications, pelvic exercises, behavioral and/or dietary modifications and vaginal devices (also called pessaries). Pelvic Floor Therapy with Biofeedback and Electric Stimulation are also treatments that your urogynecologist may recommend. Safe and effective surgical procedures are also utilized by the urogynecologist to treat incontinence and prolapse. (source)
Dr. Diaz completed her undergraduate program at the University of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras campus, where she graduated magma cum laude with a BS in general sciences. She graduated with honors from medical school in 2000, followed by residency at the University of Puerto Rico medical Center until 2004. During that time period she held several leadership positions including being class president 1997, was inducted into the AOA medical school honor Society, held office in committees with the American College of obstetrics and gynecology for several years, was administrative chief resident, and presented research projects at multiple international meetings among other things
A pelvic floor disorder occurs when women have weakened pelvic muscles or tears in the connective tissue due to excessive strain on the pelvis due to childbirth, repeated strenuous activity, menopause, chronic disease, or pelvic surgery. Other factors that can weaken the pelvic floor include repetitive heavy lifting, excessive weight, tobacco use, and genetics. (source)
Loss of bladder or bowel control, leakage of urine or feces.
Pelvic prolapse is the descent of pelvic organs (uterus, bladder, vagina, or rectum). A bulge or extreme pressure may be a sign of this. Learn how to reduce your risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse.
An overactive bladder is a general term that could be many things. This can be the frequent need to void the bladder, bladder pressure, sudden urgency to relieve the bladder, and urge incontinence (difficulty holding back urine when having the urge to urinate). Take the bladder control quiz.
A urogynecologist only treats females and does not treat anything in the upper urinary tract (kidney stones or kidney cancer). Dr. Diaz performs vaginal, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery for any damage to the pelvic floor.
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