Introduction to urodynamics The term urodynamics means observation of the changing function of the lower urinary tract (LUT) over time. Specifically, urodynamic studies are a number of interactive diagnostic tests that can be used to obtain functional information about bladder…
Introduction Sexual health is an important component of a woman’s well-being. Evidence suggests that healthy sexual functioning is a fundamental component of a woman’s sense of self and quality of life. Diminished sexual function has been found to correlate with…
Introduction The term pelvic floor disorders includes urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sensory and emptying abnormalities of the lower urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. Pelvic floor disorders are common in women and often coexist, so it is important…
Introduction The purposes of any classification system are to facilitate understanding of disease etiology and pathophysiology, to help establish and standardize treatment and research guidelines, and to avoid confusion among those who are concerned with the problem. Classification systems for…
Introduction The female pelvis is comprised of a complex, interconnected network of connective tissues and muscles that collectively work together to provide support to the pelvic organs. The vagina also provides support to the pelvic organs by supporting the urethra…
Epidemiology Female pelvic floor disorders include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and anal incontinence, as well as emptying disorders of the lower urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. These conditions can have a significant impact on a woman’s functioning and quality of…
Introduction This chapter addresses the pathophysiology of stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and fecal incontinence (FI). As Fig. 5.1 depicts, overlap of pelvic floor disorders in women suggests that there may be common risk factors or a common pathophysiology…
Pelvic floor Anatomy and composition The pelvic floor is a highly complex, heterogeneous structure that supports the pelvic organs. In certain cases, such as childbirth, substantial stretch and accommodation of the pelvic floor must occur. Although the precise physiology by…
Introduction The two functions of the lower urinary tract are the storage of urine within the bladder and the timely expulsion of urine from the urethra. The precise neurologic pathways and neurophysiologic mechanisms that control these functions of storage and…
Embryology Formation of the mesoderm The period of organogenesis, also called the embryonic period, spans the third to the eighth week of development. At approximately 15 days after fertilization, invagination and lateral migration of mesodermal cells occur between the ectodermal…