For women in their 40's and 50's, approximately one in four will develop a pelvic floor disorder such as urinary incontinence. By the age of 80, that prevalence rises to more than 50 percent. The struggle with a pelvic floor disorder has lasting effects on a woman's sexual health, leading to numerous psychosocial and physical consequences in turn. But of equal concern to many patients dealing with the symptoms of their disorder is the potential aftermath of reconstructive surgical treatments, such as mesh slings, due to their troubling complication rates. Are these concerns justified, and if so, how can the risks be mitigated by both physicians and patients?
Joining Dr. Michael Krychman to discuss the misconceptions versus realities of pelvic floor disorder treatments is Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, Professor in the departments of OB/GYN and Urology at the Georgetown University School of Medicine, and Drector of the Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery section of Medstar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC.