Bladder control & pelvic prolapse problems:
advanced solutions with the sensitive care you deserve.

If you’re suffering with a bladder control problem, know that you are not alone. Millions of women in the United States have urinary incontinence. Many of these women also have some type of pelvic prolapse – a relaxation of the muscles and structures that support the pelvic organs. Because these are such highly personal issues, many women are hesitant to bring them to the attention of their doctor, perhaps because they don’t realize just how common – or treatable – they are.

With the care of an understanding, sensitive and skilled physician, urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse can be treated effectively, often in a way that’s remarkably patient-friendly.

At Beaver Dam Women’s Health, Dr. Ken Ostermann cares for many women with these kinds of issues. He has extensive experience in this area and is one of the few fellowship-trained urogynecology specialists in the entire region.

What causes these problems & how are they treated?
Age, certain diseases, anatomical defects and side effects of some medications can all lead to urinary incontinence. Pelvic prolapse is another primary cause for the condition and can also affect the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum, causing a whole host of troubling conditions. Pelvic prolapse can be caused by:

• The hormonal changes of menopause and the aging process that naturally cause the pelvic muscles and tissues to relax and become weaker.
• One or more vaginal births, especially the birth of large babies that puts great pressure on the muscles and nerves of this area, causing damage that doesn’t always heal on its own.
• Chronic constipation or coughing that causes ongoing muscle strain and weakens the pelvic floor muscles.
• Obesity that puts pressure on the muscles and supporting tissues, weakening them over time.
• Prior pelvic surgery that may weaken the pelvic region. (Surgeries like hysterectomy actually disturb the supportive structures in the pelvic area and can make prolapse more likely.)

Dr. Ostermann provides in-office testing for urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse. He uses his expertise to get to the source of your particular problem in a convenient, discreet manner. With plenty of communication, Dr. Ostermann will help you understand your situation and explain all your treatment options in detail.

Depending on your condition, you may benefit from physical therapy or an appliance to help your bladder work more effectively and support your pelvic structures or possibly from one of the state-of-the-art surgical procedures Dr. Ostermann specializes in. You’ll work together to find the solution that’s right for you, based on your medical needs, lifestyle and personal preferences.

Remember: These problems are not your fault and they can be treated. If you have any questions about a urogynecologic health concern or if you’d like to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Ostermann, call us today: 920.885.6090.