
Urogynecology
What is a Urogynecologist?
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.
What can a Urogynecologist do?
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)
What to Expect
- Questionnaire
- Share current symptoms
- Physical exam
- Discuss treatment options
What are the Symptoms?
- Bladder, rectum, uterus and vagina
- Bulges, pressure or incontinence
- Pain
- Sexual problems
Dr. Diaz's Specializations
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Incontinence
- Constipation disorders
- Pelvic pain
- Female sexual dysfunction
Pelvic Prolapse
- Very common
- Determine severity
- Treatment options
Urinary Incontinence
- 1 in 5 women will need treatment
- Urge incontinence
- Stress incontinence
- Treatment options
Fecal Incontinence
- 1 in 12 women will experience it
- Variety of therapies
- Big quality of life impact
Female Sexual Dysfunction and Pelvic Pain
- Not many specialists treat it
- Treatment options
- Conservative options are available
Pelvic Floor Reconstructive Surgery
- Involves multiple procedures
- Specialization decreases risk
- Minimally invasive options
Nonsurgical
- Depends on patient goals
- Begin with least invasive options
- Modifying behavior
- Physical therapy
- Medications
Surgical
- Often multiple causes at fault
- Robotic options available
- Minimally invasive options
Why choose Dr. Diaz?
- Always look at the situation
- Involves the patient in the decision