Pelvic organ prolapse happens when pelvic organs like the bladder or uterus slip from their normal position and bulge into the vagina. This often results from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth, aging, or strain. Symptoms may include a feeling of pressure or a bulge. Management options involve lifestyle changes (like weight management), pelvic floor exercises, pessaries, or surgery.

Pelvic organ prolapse

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A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This can cause symptoms like a weak urine stream, difficulty emptying your bladder, or pain. It often results from injury, inflammation, or infection. Thankfully, it's a treatable condition to restore normal urine flow.

Urethral stricture

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting your bladder, bowels, and uterus become weak, tight, or uncoordinated. This can cause symptoms like urinary leakage, constipation, or pelvic pain. Treatment often involves specialized physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments to improve muscle function and reduce discomfort.

Pelvic floor dysfunction

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition causing a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often leading to frequent bathroom trips day and night, and sometimes accidental leakage. This occurs when the bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Lifestyle adjustments like managing fluid intake and diet, along with bladder training and various medications, can effectively help manage symptoms and improve daily life.

Overactive bladder

Male incontinence is the unintentional leakage of urine, often due to weakened bladder muscles, prostate issues, or nerve damage. It's a common and treatable condition, manageable through lifestyle changes, exercises, medication, or other medical interventions. Discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider can help find effective solutions to improve quality of life.

Incontinence, male

Female urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine, often triggered by activities like coughing or sneezing, or a sudden, strong urge to go. It's a common condition, often related to childbirth, menopause, or age. While common, it's manageable; lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, and other treatments can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Incontinence, female

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a common condition in post-menopausal women, stemming from lower estrogen, which causes symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and urinary changes. Effective treatments, including lubricants, moisturizers, and specific therapies, can significantly improve comfort and quality of life, with staying well-hydrated also being helpful.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

Learning about a medical condition helps you understand its common signs, potential causes, and general management approaches. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can often support overall well-being and treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.

General information

Cynthia Fok

Twin Cities Campus

Duluth Campus

Associate Professor

Surgery (Urology)

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Cynthia Fok, MD/MPH

Pelvic organ prolapse

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