Often called the “silent epidemic,” as explained by the Chief of Urogynecology at CU Anschutz School of Medicine, Dr. Kathleen A. Connell, conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are common, treatable and frequently misunderstood.

According to national data, 1 in 4 women over the age of 18 has at least one pelvic floor disorder. By the age of 60, that number increases to 1 in 3. By their 80s, nearly half of women are affected.

Despite how common these conditions are, many patients delay seeking care due to embarrassment, stigma or the belief that symptoms are simply a normal part of aging.

At CU Medicine and the new CU Medicine Urogynecology – Park Meadows clinic, specialists are working to change that. 

What is Urogynecology?

Urogynecology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders.

The field emerged in the 1980s when physicians recognized that the bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum are closely connected both anatomically and functionally. The specialty brings together specialists in gynecology, urology, colorectal surgery and pelvic floor therapy to deliver coordinated, multidisciplinary care.

“Pelvic floor disorders are a group of related conditions that often occur together,” said Dr. Connell. “If someone has prolapse, they may also have incontinence. If they have incontinence, they may also have pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. These conditions go hand in hand.”

What are Pelvic Floor Disorders?

Pelvic floor disorders include:

• Urinary incontinence – leaking urine
• Fecal incontinence – difficulty controlling bowel movements or gas
• Pelvic organ prolapse – when the bladder, uterus or rectum shift out of position and create a vaginal bulge
• Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction – when the muscles supporting the bladder, bowel or uterus become too tight or loose

These conditions are often age-related and may begin after childbirth, though symptoms can appear at any stage of life.

Common pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms include:

• A feeling of vaginal pressure or a visible bulge
• Leaking urine when coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercising
• A sudden increase in the need to urinate
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
• Inability to perform or engage pelvic floor muscles effectively

“The earlier we see patients, the better,” Dr. Connell said. “Traditionally, people were told to wait until symptoms were severe enough for surgery. But we know early intervention can improve outcomes and quality of life.”

Treatment Options for Pelvic Floor Disorders

Treatment for pelvic floor disorders range from conservative care to advanced surgery and depend on symptoms, medical history and patient preference. Treatments include:

1. Pelvic floor physical therapy – Often the first-line treatment, pelvic floor therapy strengthens the muscles that support the bladder, uterus and rectum. Therapy can also help patients learn how to properly engage and relax pelvic floor muscles.
2. Lifestyle and behavioral changes – Patients may benefit from changes like weight loss, addressing chronic constipation, increasing fiber and hydration, modifying heavy lifting and avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages.
3. Pessary devices – A pessary is a silicone device placed in the vagina to support pelvic organs. It can reduce prolapse symptoms and improve stress urinary incontinence.
4. Minimally invasive procedures – For urinary incontinence, options may include injections and sling procedures. For overactive bladder, treatments may include medications, BOTOX® injections, tibial nerve stimulation and implantable neuromodulation devices.
5. Advanced surgical care – For more complex pelvic organ prolapse cases, surgeons may perform minimally invasive surgical procedures. 

Multidisciplinary Approach to Pelvic Floor Care

At CU Medicine Urogynecology – Park Meadows, urogynecologists frequently partner with colorectal surgeons for combined procedures when both vaginal and rectal prolapses are present, reducing recovery time and streamlining care. Additionally, the team meets weekly at CU Anschutz to review complex cases. Specialists discuss imaging, exam findings and treatment plans collaboratively.

The program has performed more than 1,600 combined cases and receives referrals from across the region, making it one of the largest urogynecology programs within the Rocky Mountain Region.

This team-based approach ensures that patients seen at community clinic locations benefit from the expertise of the full academic division.

The Pelvic Floor Disorders Multidisciplinary Program was recently honored with the Clinical Innovation Team Award at the University of Colorado Hospital’s 2025 Medical Staff Awards. The recognition highlights the team’s fully integrated, multi-site model of care, which has improved access, reduced wait times and elevated quality for patients across the region.

Learn more about CU Medicine Urogynecology – Park Meadows or schedule an appointment by calling (720) 990-5317.