Making Progress: From Hushed Conversations to Advanced Treatment Options

The National Institutes of Health estimates one-third of women in the U.S. suffer from pelvic floor disorders, which occur when the support and function of the pelvic organs are compromised. Women can develop a range of conditions, including urinary and fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse (when pelvic organs descend onto the vagina). The Pelvic Health and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic, opens new tab at Meritas Health Pavilion for Women, opens new tab has opened on North Kansas City Hospital’s campus to help women who often suffer in silence because they are embarrassed or unsure of where to seek treatment.

The urogynecology clinic treats bladder and pelvic pain, incontinence and other conditions related to pelvic floor dysfunction. Ian M. Rosbrugh, MD, opens new tab, estimates most women suffer from these conditions for at least a year before they seek help. For some patients, it is even longer because they don’t believe there are treatment options.

“It’s something women are hesitant to address, but seeking treatment can drastically improve their quality of life,” Dr. Rosbrugh explains. “In some circumstances there are fairly simple things we can do to make a substantial difference.”

A woman may be more at risk for pelvic floor disorders if she has a history of hernias, has given birth, has had pelvic surgery, or has a labor-intensive job with chronic lifting and straining.

Women in Clay and Platte counties can now be assessed and treated locally for issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction. “Location will not be a barrier to treatment,” Dr. Rosbrugh said. “Women shouldn’t have to travel far from home or go to multiple physicians in an attempt to get answers. When a woman comes here, it will be one doctor taking care of her, one person who is going to care for her through the entire process to make sure her medical problems are addressed.”

Women interested in learning more about the new clinic should visit MeritasHealth.com/Pelvic Health, opens new tab or call 816.452.3300.

About North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health

For more than half a century, North Kansas City Hospital has been the Northland’s preferred healthcare provider. The hospital serves the community with 451 licensed beds, more than 3,000 employees, and 492 physicians representing 46 medical specialties. From a Level III neonatal intensive care unit to home health and hospice services, NKCH provides a lifetime of care.

NKCH offers award-winning cardiovascular and orthopedic programs. The hospital's oncology partnership with The University of Kansas Cancer Center, opens new tab provides patients access to clinical trials only available at the nation’s leading cancer centers.

Through its Meritas Health, opens new tab subsidiary, North Kansas City Hospital offers the largest network of physician practices in the Northland, with more than 140 physicians and 30 advanced practitioners, opens new tab in 30 convenient locations, opens new tab, including express care clinics, opens new tab in the Liberty, Gladstone and 64th Street Hy-Vee stores.

The hospital’s mission, vision and values reflect a strong commitment to the health and well-being of the Northland community and beyond. Last year, NKCH sponsored 60 charitable and community organizations and served more than 24,000 people through its dynamic Community Health & Wellness programs. And, it recently became the first hospital in Kansas City to offer a zero-percent financing option to help patients manage their medical expenses.