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Urogenital and rectovaginal fistulas are rare but serious pelvic floor disorders. These abnormal openings between pelvic organs cause unintentional leakage of urine or stool into the vagina, leading to hygiene challenges, infections, and significant emotional distress. Timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary care can greatly improve outcomes.
Urogenital and rectovaginal fistulas are abnormal tracts or openings between the vagina and surrounding organs—such as the bladder, urethra, or rectum. These conditions result in continuous leakage of urine or feces through the vaginal canal. They often arise from childbirth trauma, surgical complications (like hysterectomy), pelvic cancers, or radiation treatment.
Women affected may experience chronic discomfort, odor, recurrent infections, and psychological distress due to the social stigma and reduced quality of life. Although uncommon in high-income countries, they require specialized evaluation and surgical expertise to correct. Multidisciplinary teams provide the best outcomes for recovery and long-term well-being.
Urogenital and rectovaginal fistulas are diagnosed through pelvic exams, dye tests, and advanced imaging like MRI or CT scans. Cystoscopy or colonoscopy may also be used to locate and assess the size and complexity of the fistula. A multidisciplinary team approach ensures a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Treatment typically involves surgical repair to close the fistula. Pelvic floor exercises and physical therapy may support recovery. In some cases, a vaginal pessary offers symptom relief. Lifestyle changes—like avoiding heavy lifting, managing constipation, and quitting smoking—help prevent worsening or recurrence.
Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Treatment
EMFEMME 360 is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency to deliver gentle heat to the vaginal and pelvic tissues. This process promotes collagen remodelling, enhances circulation, and supports tissue tone, improving both pelvic floor strength and overall vaginal health. EMFEMME 360 is ideal for women looking to address pelvic discomfort and urinary control without surgery or downtime.
Non-Invasive Pelvic Floor Treatment
Emsella is an FDA-cleared treatment that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy to stimulate deep pelvic floor muscle contractions. Each session is equivalent to doing thousands of Kegel exercises in just 30 minutes. It’s an effective, non-invasive solution for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), helping to restore muscle strength and improve bladder control. Many women experience improvement after a series of treatments, with no downtime and comfortable, fully clothed sessions.
Pelvic floor muscle exercises, commonly known as Kegel exercises, are designed to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, rectum, and small intestine. Regular practice can improve urinary and fecal control, reduce symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, and aid in recovery after childbirth or pelvic surgery. In the context of urogenital and rectovaginal conditions, strengthening the pelvic floor helps enhance muscular support, minimize discomfort, and improve overall pelvic stability.
Pelvic floor physical therapy involves targeted, personalized treatment to assess and rehabilitate the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. This therapy is especially beneficial for patients experiencing chronic pelvic pain, muscle tightness, or dysfunction related to urogenital or rectovaginal conditions. Through guided exercises, manual techniques, and biofeedback, patients can learn to properly activate or relax pelvic muscles as needed. It is commonly recommended both before and after surgery to optimize outcomes, ease discomfort, and support long-term recovery.
A vaginal pessary is a removable medical device inserted into the vagina to provide structural support for weakened pelvic tissues. It is commonly used in the non-surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence. Pessaries help reduce pressure on the vaginal walls and surrounding organs, alleviating symptoms such as discomfort, bulging, or urinary leakage. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for a customized fit based on the patient’s anatomy and condition. Pessaries are a safe, effective option for patients seeking symptom relief without undergoing surgery.
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