The prevalence of urogynecologic disorders

Although the field of urogynecology spans a wide range of lower urinary tract disorders, urinary incontinence and urinary infections remain the two most common disorders of the urinary tract encountered by the health care provider practicing obstetrics and gynecology. Both problems have a higher prevalence in the older population, and in addition they both have a predilection for recurrence. Together they account for considerable personal and public expense, as well as untold individual emotional and physical distress. Much remains to be learned before significant measures can be initiated to prevent the problems. Urinary incontinence is particularly challenging because it is a manifestation of so many other disorders or their treatment.