Urogynecology Testing

Pelvic Exam

A pelvic exam is an important part of your evaluation. It involves inspecting the skin in and around your vaginal and feeling for any abnormalities. It is the key component to evaluating pelvic organ prolapse.


Urodynamic Testing

Urodynamic testing is a series of three tests evaluating bladder function which helps determine the cause of bothersome urinary symptoms. The purpose of the testing is to reproduce a patient’s symptoms and to better characterize bladder function. The testing takes about an hour and is performed in the office procedure room. Only local anesthesia is used.


Urine Exam

An urine exam can include evaluation for blood, infection and abnormal cells. It is important to know if any of these conditions exists, as they may contribute to bothersome urinary symptoms.


Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy means to “look inside the bladder” and can be done in the office with only local anesthesia. Cystoscopy allows us to identify any foreign object, trauma, tumor or abnormal anatomy inside the bladder that may contribute to bothersome urinary symptoms.


Pelvic Ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasound is the imaging method of choice for most gynecologists because, especially when done vaginally, it provides an excellent view of the uterus and ovaries. It can also be helpful to evaluate the bladder, ureters and kidneys.


Defecography

Defecography is an imaging study performed by a radiologist in which the mechanics of a patient’s defecation are visualized in real time using a fluoroscope. It is helpful in determining the cause of defecatory (elimination of stool) dysfunction.


Ano-rectal Physiology Testing

Ano-rectal physiology testing is a very helpful study for patients who suffer bothersome defecatory dysfunction (either constipation or fecal incontinence). It involves evaluating the strength of the anal sphincter with pressure measurements and is frequently coupled with ultrasound to visualize the sphincter anatomy.