Gynecology

Annual Exam

West Des Moines OB/GYN Associates provides annual exams to women seeking to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. The primary focus of an annual exam is reproductive health, but other health indicators such as weight, blood pressure, nutrition, and exercise are also covered. It’s our goal to keep women up to date regarding immunizations, birth control options, or any other medical news pertaining to female health.

An annual exam at West Des Moines OB/GYN Associates may involve the following:

• General health observation
• Pap tests
• Birth control discussion
• STD testing
• Menopause discussion

Incontinence & Prolapse

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a loss of bladder control that can span from a slight loss of urine when coughing or laughing, to a total inability to control your bladder. It’s a common issue that can occur due to a number of reasons like the consumption of certain foods, age, childbirth, or menopause. Incontinence can be temporary or persistent, depending on what’s causing it. Temporary causes include constipation, a UTI, or spicy foods. Persistent causes range from pregnancy to obstruction. 

You can decrease your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, pelvic floor exercises, and consuming more fiber. Speak with our team of women’s incontinence doctors if you have any questions or concerns regarding changes in your urination habits.

Uterine and Bladder Prolapse

Uterine prolapse happens when the pelvic floor muscles are stretched and weakened, and can’t provide enough support for the uterus. When this occurs, the uterus drops down into the vagina. In severe cases, it may even protrude out of it. Mild conditions typically can be treated by levels and pelvic floor exercises. More severe prolapse is typically corrected surgically or with the use of a pessary.

Symptoms may present as incontinence, tissue protruding from your vagina, or heaviness in your pelvis or low back. Risk factors for prolapse include pregnancy, difficult labor, obesity, and heavy lifting. 

Bladder prolapse occurs when the bladder drops from the pelvis and pushes on the vaginal wall. This occurs when the pelvic floor is weakened or experiences too much pressure. Symptoms are akin to uterine prolapse, presenting as a feeling of fullness in your pelvis and vagina, pelvic pressure when straining, or difficulties with urination.