Although women rarely talk about incontinence and pelvic prolapse, these conditions are very common. Incontinence may be experienced during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause or chronic illness which may be related to hormonal and physical changes in the body. In fact, millions of women have sought medical or surgical treatment to successfully restore pelvic function and improve their quality of life.
CPMC’s Pelvic Health Program is located with other women’s services in our Center for Women’s Health Care at 2333 Buchanan Street in San Francisco. In this caring environment designed for women, we provide services tailored to meet your individual needs, using the latest state-of-the-art medical technology.
What to Expect
When booking your initial session, our staff will provide a bladder diary so you can track your urinary habits and fluid intake during the week before your first visit. At your first appointment, a pelvic health specialist will make an individualized assessment based on your bladder diary and an evaluation of your pelvic floor muscles to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Your plan may include one or more of the following therapies:
- Biofeedback – This painless therapeutic technique measures the strength and duration of pelvic muscle contractions. Biofeedback uses sensory information collected via audio or visual cues to reinforce that you’re using the correct muscles to do a Kegel.
- Pelvic floor stimulation – A sensor is used to stimulate the nerves and muscles of the pelvic floor and bladder, causing the muscles to tighten and strengthen, and helps relax the bladder.
- Behavioral modification strategies and home exercises – These strategies help improve and restore bladder control and bowel function by strengthening the pelvic floor.
- Dietary evaluation and education – Bladder control problems can be helped by adjustments to food and beverage choices. Examples include managing constipation with a higher fiber diet, or reducing caffeine intake to help with the urge and frequency of urination.
All services take place at the CPMC’s Center for Women’s Health Care, which provides personalized women’s healthcare and offers a wide variety of patient education opportunities, including classes and support groups for women with continence issues.
Making an Appointment
A referral from your doctor is required to receive services through CPMC’s Pelvic Health Program. Before scheduling an appointment, contact your insurance provider to discuss coverage. Self-pay options are also available. For more information, call (415) 600-2670 or talk with your primary care doctor.
