Saint Luke’s Urogynecology Specialists

Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect people during different stages of life. Hormonal and physical changes—including pregnancy, traumatic injury, being overweight, and advancing age—can cause pelvic floor complications.

The team at Saint Luke’s Urogynecology Specialists has the specialized training and experience to diagnose and treat a wide range of pelvic floor disorders. Our urogynecologists are licensed OB-GYNs with additional training in female pelvic health. 

They have more than 50 years of combined experience caring for women with pelvic floor conditions. Our team collaborates with providers in gynecology, urology, digestive health, colorectal surgery, and other specialty areas to provide comprehensive care.

To schedule an appointment, call 816-932-1785.

For new patients, download forms (PDF).

Symptoms

Our team provides compassionate, respectful care for a full range of issues including:

• Leaking urine when coughing, laughing, or exercising
• Difficulty starting to urinate or emptying the bladder completely
• An urgent or frequent need to urinate or experiencing pain while urinating
• Leaking stool or difficulty controlling gas
• Constipation
• Difficulty making it to the bathroom in time
• Feeing heaviness, fullness, pulling, or aching in the vagina that gets worse by the end of the day or after a bowel movement
• Seeing or feeling a “bulge” or “something coming out” of the vagina

Treatment

We offer state-of-the-art diagnostics and personalized treatment options, including medication, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgery.  

• Computerized urodynamic testing, which assesses how well the bladder and urethra store and release urine
• Cystoscopy, which lets your doctor use a small scope to look at the interior lining of the bladder and urethra
• Bladder training and "urge" suppression strategies
• Strengthening of the pelvic floor with special exercises
• Nerve stimulation
• BOTOX® intravesical injection
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic procedures

Frequently asked questions

What is a urogynecologist?

A urogynecologist is an OB-GYN with special training in treating 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.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor refers to the muscles, ligaments, connective tissue, and nerves that help support and control the functioning of your bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum. Issues with these muscles may lead to loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels, and downward falling or bulging of your pelvic organs.

What if I’m embarrassed or anxious about seeing an urogynecology specialist?

Many women find it difficult to discuss these issues with a physician. It’s important to understand these conditions are common. In fact, one in four women will experience pelvic floor issues. Urogynecologists are experts at diagnosing and treating these conditions.

What causes pelvic floor disorders?

Pelvic floor disorders can occur in women in their 20s and 30s and during menopause as well. Some of the risk factors for pelvic floor disorders include:

• Vaginal birth
• C-section
• Multiple births 
• Obesity
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic coughing
• Repeated strenuous activity and heavy lifting
• Radiation treatment
• Prior pelvic surgery
• Aging
• Genetics

Is a referral required to see a urogynecologist?

No. If you need to see a urogynecologist, your primary care provider or OB-GYN can refer you. However, a referral is not required.