Highlighting Urodynamics

Urodynamics testing now available at St. Francis


Posted Jan 28, 2011

Maryville, Mo. — It is an uncomfortable and, for many, deeply embarrassing problem, but researchers estimate that urinary incontinence affects one out of every four women in the United States.

Since late last year, however, local women suffering from this condition have had a new resource for evaluating and obtaining treatment in an atmosphere that stresses privacy, respect and confidentiality.

In December, St. Francis Hospital & Health Services began offering monthly urodynamics testing through the Bladder Health Network. A urodynamics assessment shows how well the bladder and urethra are doing their jobs so that health-care professionals can prescribe treatment strategies.

"Testing is important because urinary problems have different causes and are treated differently depending upon the cause," said Dr. Jane Dawson, an obstetrician and gynecologist on staff at St. Francis. "Patients can be treated with medicine, physical therapy, surgery or lifestyle changes depending on the results."

Symptoms can include leaking, difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urination, recurrent infections and loss of bladder support. Dawson said diabetes, previous pregnancies and a physical history of frequent lifting are among the causes.

"Before testing was available, treatment was based on what the patient told us," Dawson said. "Now a patient's treatment can be tailored more precisely to the actual cause, which improves the results."

Urodynamics employs sophisticated equipment that measures the amount of pressure experienced by the bladder and urethra and provides data used to evaluate the function and efficiency of a patient's urinary system.

"The analysis is professional and supplies a complete detailed report," Dawson said.

Women with urinary incontinence often fail to receive appropriate care, which can result in their forgoing favorite activities, exercise and travel. Some deny themselves treatment out of embarrassment, or believe the condition is a normal part of the aging process. This is a myth. Dawson, said.

"While incontinence is a common problem, it is not normal at any age," she said.


Urodynamics testing now available at St. Francis