Diagnostic Testing for Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic health testing at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health pinpoints the source of your symptoms so you can get the treatments you need for lasting relief. Our highly regarded and experienced team coordinates appropriate assessments and accurately interprets the results.

Our pelvic health program is home to trusted urogynecologists, gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons. These experts specialize in conditions affecting the bladder, rectum and female reproductive system. We collaborate with each other and additional specialists to coordinate evaluations for complex cases. Meet our team.

Highlights of our program include: 

• Comprehensive care: Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is among the few programs in the Puget Sound area providing a full range of pelvic floor testing. You have access to advanced options, such as video urodynamic studies, dynamic MRI and defecography with fluoroscopy. Our offerings help you receive the most accurate possible diagnosis.

• Convenience: Some tests, such as cystoscopy, are available on an outpatient basis during an office visit. This capability leads to a more definitive diagnosis in fewer appointments. Cystoscopy is available in multiple locations throughout the Puget Sound region.

• National recognition: Since 2010, Virginia Mason Medical Center has achieved and maintained National Association for Continence Center of Excellence accreditation by the Surgical Review Corporation. We are the only program in the Pacific Northwest with this designation. This recognition reflects our commitment to meeting the highest standards for pelvic floor testing and treatment. You can count on us for the latest evidence-based pelvic floor tests and accurate results.

Your comprehensive evaluation starts with a discussion of your medical history, including conditions like pregnancy and previous surgeries that impact your pelvic health. We discuss your symptoms and perform in-office exams before determining the next steps of care, which sometimes include advanced testing.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers any pelvic health evaluation you may need, including: 

• Anorectal manometry: This test measures how well the rectal and anal muscles and nerves work together. It can help diagnose the causes of accidental bowel leakage, constipation, pain or urgency.
• Cystoscopy: We use this procedure to evaluate the inside of the bladder. 
• Dynamic pelvic floor MRI: This scan assesses how well pelvic muscles work. It can help us diagnose a range of pelvic floor disorders.
• Defecography with fluoroscopy: This test captures real-time images of your rectal and pelvic floor muscles during a bowel movement. It’s used to help determine the cause of constipation or fecal incontinence. Your provider might show you these images to help you understand why you are having the symptoms you are describing.
• Translabial ultrasound: This test determines whether implantable mesh from a pelvic organ prolapse repair procedure is disrupting nearby organs. 
• Urodynamic tests: These studies assess the bladder’s ability to store and release urine by capturing data while you urinate. We offer standard urodynamic testing and video studies that show real-time bladder function.

When you’re considering surgery for a pelvic health problem, it’s natural to have questions. During your appointment, we discuss any concerns you may have, making it easier to take an active role in your care. Get started by reading answers to FAQs about pelvic floor services.

Our multidisciplinary team cares for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find a pelvic health specialist.