Urogynaecology is a specialised field within Obstetrics and Gynaecology that focuses on conditions affecting the female pelvic floor. It combines aspects of gynaecology and urology to diagnose and manage disorders involving the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum.​

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the pelvic organs and helps control functions such as urination, bowel movements and aspects of sexual activity. When these muscles become weakened, injured or poorly coordinated, pelvic floor dysfunction may occur. This can lead to symptoms such as urinary leakage, difficulty passing urine or stools, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sexual activity.​

Pelvic floor problems can develop due to factors such as pregnancy and childbirth, ageing, pelvic injury or surgery, obesity, or repeated straining during bowel movements. Without appropriate evaluation and treatment, these conditions may affect comfort, confidence and overall quality of life.​

A uterine prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles supporting the pelvic floor organs (uterus, bladder, rectum) weaken and are unable to support the uterus. This causes the uterus to slip from its original position and drop into the vagina.

The weakening of the pelvic muscles is commonly caused by pregnancy and strain during a vaginal delivery. Women who have had multiple deliveries are at a higher risk of developing a prolapse in later years.

Depending on the severity, a uterine prolapse can present a variety of symptoms:

• Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control or urine leakage when coughing, sneezing or exerting yourself)
• Bulge or sensation of heaviness in the vaginal area
• Pelvic pressure
• Pain during sex
• Lower back pain

Treatments for uterine prolapse include lifestyle measures such as exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles, inserting a pessary to support the prolapsed tissue, or removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) for severe prolapse cases.

In cases where urinary incontinence occurs independently or alongside pelvic floor weakness, additional treatment options may be considered. For suitable patients with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence, non-surgical therapies such as Electromagnetic Incontinence Therapy (EMIT) may be discussed. ​

EMIT is a chair-based therapy that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy to strengthen pelvic floor muscles without surgery or downtime. Where appropriate, referral within the Singapore Medical Group network can be arranged for further assessment. ​

If you experience urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, or physical activity, we encourage you to consult our specialists for a comprehensive evaluation and personalised treatment plan.​