Urogynecologist vs. Urologist

Hi Ladies!

I know if you're reading this then you've probably had problems with your bladder post-hysterectomy. I'm in the position now where my gynecologist has to refer me to a uro gynecologist. My question is:

Which is better to go to with these types of problems, the urogynecologist or a urologist?

Lots of women think urologists are more specialists in men's problems and the urogynecologist is better to deal with us gals. From your experience/knowledge, what do you think?

Hi!
I had my 3 "celes' repaired and a vaginal vault suspension done by a uro/gyn. I didn't go to a "plain" urologist and I'll tell you why. Uro/gyn have additional education and training in WOMENS disorders from prolpapses to incontinence and everything in between regarding the pelvic region of a WOMENS body. A urologist sees men as well as women. I'm stick with my uro/gyn. I see him once a year for my check up and of course, he also checks his handywork! He's worth his weight in gold! I strongly suggest that you see a uro/gyn! Take care...

PLEASE see a uro gyn. Most urolisgists deal with men, not alot are qualified to treat women. My own personal experience. I had a bladder sling put in, should not have had, had to have it cut twice and then moved because it was in the wrong spot. URO GYN

Please choose a uro/gyn. The urologist that did the surgury for my VVF was not knowlegable at all. He removed my cathter too soon after my first and second bladder repair which caused failure in the first repair and almost failure in the second. I started leaking 24 ours of removal of the cath the second time. He never told me to urinate around the clock every hour or two. He told I could have sex at 3 weeks post op, the uro/gyn says 12 weeks.
Knowing all I know from camparing my stories with other fistula sisters I would say I wouldnt have been so sick for so long if I would have choose the uro/gyn.

I think it depends on what exactly the problem is. While a urogyn is good for some things they dont have extensive urology training.
It would be wise to do some comparison shopping based on your individual need(s) then go from there.

good luck
d

I have a male urologist. He repaired my HUGE VVF the first time! His view on uro/gyn is that it is a very new specialty and that they do not have as extensive knowledge of urinary conditions. He has been repairing VVF's for 25 years... he is old school, he diagrees with the vaginal approach to repair, which allot of uro/gyns endorse. I guess it really depends on your needs and your docs experience.

Hello,

Just had to jump in here - my uro/gyn was one of the doctors who put together the American Society of Urogynecologist in the 70's!! He has said to me that it was a very busy time! I'd say 35 years of being around isn't a "new specialty"! I do agree that every womans situation is different, but I'd start out with, at least, a uro/gyn....I know that with my doctor, if he thinks your situation is out of his realm he will direct you to someone who can help you. He's also a doctor who doesn't jump quickly onto the "it's a new procedure, let's do it to her".....ie: he doesn't use mesh, but I know from the posts on this site that alot of doctors do use mesh. So, each doctor has his/her protocol, but I'd still go with a uro/gyn!!

Oy Vey, there's a lot to think about, isn't there?

Thanks for the input, ladies! I actually have a regular urologist and basically, he isn't listening to me. My gynecologist suggested the urogynecologist, who previously worked at the Cleveland Clinic. I haven't met him yet but I have a feeling he's young.

My gyn is young (she's 30!!) but highly intelligent and very meticulous. She had a resident working with her during my hyst as the hospital where my surgery took place is a teaching hospital. If I end up getting another surgery I'm going to tell the new doc that I don't want to be someone's science experiment and could he please do the procedure himself. I've had two surgeries since November, I want number 3 to be the one that sets me straight (if it comes to that!).

Thanks again, everyone! It's too bad we even have to know what a urogynecologist is, isn't it?