Urogynecologist or OB-GYN? How To Choose the Right Specialist for Pelvic Health

It’s not always easy to know which type of doctor to see, especially if you’re dealing with symptoms related to your bladder, pelvic floor or reproductive system. There’s an important distinction between gynecologists and urogynecologists — yet many people aren’t aware of it.

What’s the Difference?

Urogynecologists are doctors who first train as gynecologists, then get more training to treat problems with the pelvic floor — the muscles and organs that support the bladder, uterus and rectum. Unlike OB-GYNs who manage pregnancy, childbirth and general women’s health, urogynecologists focus on issues like bladder leaks, pelvic organs dropping out of place and long-term bladder problems.

Knowing the difference can help you get faster, more effective care.

What Does a Gynecologist Do?

A gynecologist focuses on general women’s reproductive health. They offer a wide range of services for women at all stages of life, including:

• Menstrual issues, such as heavy, painful or irregular periods
• Birth control management
• Menopause care and symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness and mood changes
• Routine screenings, such as Pap smears and pelvic exams
• Diagnosis and treatment of infections, including yeast infections and STIs
• Support for fertility and conception planning

A gynecologist is often your first stop for preventive care and common gynecologic concerns.

What Does a Urogynecologist Treat?

A urogynecologist is a subspecialist who completes advanced fellowship training after becoming a gynecologist. Their focus is on diagnosing and treating pelvic floor disorders, which affect the muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, vagina, uterus and rectum.

These conditions often require more specialized care. A urogynecologist may treat:

• Pelvic organ prolapses, when organs like the bladder or uterus drop into the vaginal canal and cause a sensation of pressure or bulging. (Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore pelvic organ prolapse).
• Stress urinary incontinence, such as leakage with coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise.
• Overactive bladder with frequent, urgent urination that’s difficult to control.
• Fecal incontinence, or accidental loss of bowel control.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Chronic pelvic pain or complications after gynecologic surgery.

These issues can disrupt everything from sleep to exercise to social life. Still, many women put off care, unsure of where to go. Knowing when to see a specialist for urinary incontinence can help guide that decision.

When to See a Urogynecologist

If you’re unsure whether to stick with your gynecologist or see a urogynecologist, consider the symptoms you’re experiencing. A referral to a urogynecologist may be right if you have:

• A vaginal bulge or sense of pressure, especially with standing or lifting
• Urinary leakage when laughing, sneezing or exercising
• Sudden, strong urges to urinate, often with little warning
• Trouble completely emptying your bladder or bowels
• Bladder infections that keep coming back, even after treatment
• Ongoing discomfort following a pelvic or gynecologic procedure

Urogynecologists offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Options may include physical therapy, medications, in-office procedures or minimally invasive surgery depending on your healthcare goals and lifestyle.

Why Talking About Pelvic Floor Symptoms Matters

Bladder and bowel control issues are deeply personal. For many women, they are difficult to talk about, even with a doctor. But these symptoms are far more common than most people realize. Research shows that nearly a quarter of U.S. women will experience at least one pelvic floor disorder in their lifetime, such as urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence or organ prolapse.

Despite how widespread these conditions are, women often delay seeking help. They may assume that bladder leaks or bowel accidents are simply part of aging or something to expect after childbirth. But these are treatable medical conditions, not something anyone should feel resigned to live with.

Understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step.

Pelvic floor disorders develop when the muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus and rectum weaken or stretch — often due to childbirth, aging, other medical conditions or prior surgeries. While a gynecologist can help identify symptoms, a urogynecologist is specially trained to diagnose and treat complex pelvic floor disorders with advanced, personalized approaches. With the right care, most women can experience a significant improvement — whether through pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle changes or minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Take the First Step to Relief

If you're experiencing symptoms like leakage, pressure or recurrent UTIs, help is available. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Discuss your symptoms with a urogynecologist to explore your options and start feeling better.