At Athens Area Urology, we aren’t just limited to men’s health. We also specialize in women’s health issues! Common problems we can diagnose and provide services for include:

• Female Urinary Incontinence

• Overactive Bladder

• Vaginal Atrophy

• Pelvic Prolapse

While all of these issues involve women’s health, not everyone is aware of what they mean or what their symptoms look like. At AAU, we believe your health is just as important as your knowledge.

Female urinary incontinence is when you cannot control your urine, and it leaks. However, despite popular belief of it merely being a sign of becoming older, urinary incontinence can often be improved or resolved. Urinary incontinence is categorized into two sections: stress and urge. Stress incontinence is when urine leaks from coughing, sneezing, laughing, or physical activity, while urge incontinence is when someone experiences a very sudden, strong urge to use the bathroom and leakage occurs before they make it to the restroom in time. AAU can help determine which form of urinary incontinence you have, and can thus create a solution from there.

Having an overactive bladder can be embarrassing for numerous women. Overactive bladder (OAB) refers to a combination of urinary symptoms. Athens Area Urology provides a wide range of services to help you gain back control of your bladder. Whether you decide to use medication, modify your diet and lifestyle, or want a procedure, AAU is here to help decide which option is best for you.

Vaginal atrophy happens when the vagina becomes inflamed due to the thinning of the vaginal mucosa. The most common cause of vaginal atrophy is the decrease of estrogen as women age. Symptoms include: vaginal burning, vaginal discomfort, urinary complaints, and painful sexual intercourse. Although vaginal atrophy is natural, it can also be spurred on by breastfeeding and specific medications.

Pelvic prolapse occurs when the tissues and muscles supporting the pelvic organs loosen or weaken. These tissues and muscles can include the uterus, rectum, and bladder. When weakened, the pelvic organs may either press into or drop out of one’s vagina. The three types of pelvic prolapses include uterine prolapse, cystocele, and rectocele. Symptoms may consist of pressure, discomfort, fullness, incontinence, being unable to insert tampons, pelvic pressure, and seeing/feeling a bulge. The most important thing to remember is that pelvic prolapse is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. Countless women deal with this problem, which can thankfully be treated with either medical devices, specific exercises, or surgery.

At Athens Area Urology, we are equally devoted to both our male and female patients alike. For more information on any of these conditions, or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 706.612.9401 today.