Female Gynecological Fistulas – Urinary Fistula in Women
Dr. Vijayant G. Gupta is a Consultant Urologist in Delhi NCR specializing in Urogynecology. He has a special interest in managing gynecological urinary fistulas, including Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) and Ureterovaginal Fistula (UVF), among others. For an appointment, you can contact him via email or message.
What Is VVF?
Urinary fistulas in women are complex and multifaceted problems. They not only cause significant medical concerns but also lead to psychosocial distress. Continuous urinary leakage can result in wetting, foul odor, skin infections, and severe emotional distress. In many cases, women suffering from urinary fistulas experience social ostracization, either by choice or societal pressure.
Female urinary fistulas are a major cause of incontinence in women. Unfortunately, many women delay treatment due to embarrassment or shame. However, these conditions are treatable, and with proper management, patients can achieve long-lasting relief.
Types of Female Gynecological Urinary Fistulas
The most common type of urinary fistula in women is Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF). Other types include:
Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) – Between the bladder and vagina.
Ureterovaginal Fistula (UVF) – Between the ureter and vagina.
Uterovaginal Fistula (UtVF) – Also known as Youssef Syndrome, characterized by cyclical hematuria and menouria.
Causes of Female Urinary Fistulas
There are several causes of female urinary fistulas, listed in order from most common to least common:
Iatrogenic (60%) – Most commonly caused by hysterectomy (uterus removal), leading to the formation of a supratrigonal VVF. Other surgeries, such as Cesarean sections, gynecological incontinence procedures, dilation & curettage (D&C), and abortion, may also result in fistula formation.
Obstetric or Childbirth-Related (30%) – Prolonged obstructed labor can lead to large, complex fistulas. This is more common in rural areas but is occasionally seen in urban and semi-urban settings.
Cancer and Radiation (5%) – Women diagnosed with cervical or endometrial cancer may develop urinary fistulas as a complication.
Radiation Therapy (2%) – Long-term radiation treatment for cancer can result in urinary fistula formation.
Miscellaneous Causes – Some fistulas remain unexplained and pose a challenge even for experienced urologists.
Who Treats Female Urinary Fistulas? (VVF Management in Delhi NCR & Gurgaon)
The treatment of VVF and other urinary fistulas requires expertise in both gynecology and urology. Since these fistulas involve the bladder and vagina, a multidisciplinary approach is often necessary. However, urinary fistulas are best managed by a urologist.
Dr. Vijayant G. Gupta has extensive experience in treating female urinary fistulas using vaginal, abdominal, and robotic approaches. He provides scientific, ethical, economical, and effective treatment for VVF in Delhi NCR and Gurgaon.
Note: VVF management is a complex process that requires patience and time. Immediate results should not be expected, but with the right approach, successful treatment is achievable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Urinary Fistula in Women
The primary symptom is continuous urinary leakage, leading to wetness, foul odor, and frequent infections. Other symptoms may include discomfort, pain during urination, and social embarrassment.
In very rare cases, small fistulas may close spontaneously. However, most cases require surgical intervention for effective treatment.
VVF is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, cystoscopy, contrast imaging, and other specialized tests.
Treatment typically involves surgical repair through vaginal, abdominal, or robotic approaches. The choice of method depends on the location and complexity of the fistula.
Recovery time varies depending on the surgical approach and individual healing capacity. Generally, patients require several weeks to months for complete healing.
Yes, VVF surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced urologist. Like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, but complications are rare with proper care.
You can schedule a consultation by contacting Dr. Gupta via email or message.
