Urogynecology: comments and caveats

Historically, the routine workup of the incontinent woman has focused on clinical parameters including history, pelvic examination, cotton swab test, and radiographic imaging of the bladder and urethra. Data are presented to support the concept that urinary symptoms and pelvic findings do not accurately define the causes of incontinence. Because urinary incontinence is both a dysfunctional and a structural problem, evaluation of the urodynamic response of the lower urinary tract should be part of the workup of the incontinent woman.