Every five years, the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) and the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) hold a joint scientific meeting to share the latest research findings, technological advances, surgical techniques, medication and treatment options in the field of urogynecology and Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.
VWC’s urogynecologists Drs. Tovia Smith and Megan Shannon enjoyed a few days in the“Music City,” Nashville, Tennessee soaking in everything the AUGS/IUGA conference had to offer — education, networking and sharing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs — uterus, bladder, or rectum — become weak or loose allowing one or more of them to drop or press into or out of the vagina.)
- MRIs are helping us to learn more about the causes of prolapse.
- There’s new thinking as to how best to help women manage their long-term pessaries using anti-inflammatory medications instead of antibiotics.
- New and promising research for prolapse repairs where the uterus is preserved — avoiding hysterectomies in certain patients.
Urinary Incontinence (loss of bladder control which results in urine leakage)
- Urethral bulking, a great alternative to surgery, is gaining popularity among women who suffer from stress incontinence.
- Vaginal carbon dioxide lasers such as the MonaLisa Touch© may help women with stress incontinence for up to a year following treatment.
- Crossfit© — a popular high-impact exercise program — participants report significant urine leaking during workouts. But, given the high-impact exercises performed, surprisingly there are minimal prolapse issues reported.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Limiting antibiotics in the treatment of recurrent UTIs is viable as long as the patient is not in any discomfort.
- Lower urinary tract issues such as urinary frequency, urgency and painful urination are common in female adolescents and may overlap with some gynecologic issues. When present, they can impact the quality of life, family relationships, and success in school.
- Using a patient’s own tissue for sling procedures appears to enhance long-term outcomes.
Postpartum Pelvic Strength and Health
- Weaker pelvic floor muscle strength is associated with a higher incidence of prolapse and incontinence in women who deliver vaginally.
- Postpartum supplements may help women recover after vaginal delivery, according to preliminary study results.
Proudly part of
Every five years, the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) and the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) hold a joint scientific meeting to share the latest research findings, technological advances, surgical techniques, medication and treatment options in the field of urogynecology and Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.
