There are several pelvic conditions that are of concern for women as they age, including:
- Abnormally heavy menstrual periods (also called menorrhagia).
- Uterine fibroids(benign tumors made of muscle and connective tissue in the uterus).
- Stress urinary incontinence (urine leakage during physical acts, such as coughing or sneezing).
- Pelvic organ prolapse (the drooping of pelvic floor organs, including the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel and rectum).
“Many times, women don’t report these conditions to their doctor or seek treatment because they may be embarrassed,” says Stephen Hildebrand, MD, with McAlister OB/GYN Associates-Lincolnton, part of Atrium Health. “But, there are ways to manage many of these conditions, so it’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.” These quick tips may help:
- Make good use of your limited time with your doctor by asking questions and bringing up concerns early in the exam.
- Mention your concerns with the nurse before the doctor comes into the exam room.
- Be honest about your discomfort and admit it to your physician. Chances are slim your doctor has not heard the question or concern that’s worrying you.
