On the Origin of Urogynecology

As long as mankind and especially women exist there have been problems related to gynecological and obstetrical problems including urogynecology. The early history of urogynecology has never been well described.

In this review we describe the origin of urogynecology in its earliest written sources emphasizing on ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse was, even then, an important part of gynecology and the connection between obstetric care and the occurrence of a prolapse was clearly recognized. There are countless examples of how doctors and midwives have struggled with this. A multitude of treatments, some such as the use of primitive pessaries, very realistic, others with a clear magical or religious slant.

It is concluded that urogynecological problems, especially Pelvic Organ Prolapse, was a major problem in these ancient societies with many, sometimes inventive, therapies.