Conditions
We understand that dealing with health concerns can feel personal and sometimes even a little intimidating. That’s why we’ve put together this page—to give you clear, down-to-earth information about the conditions Dr. Stearman commonly treats. Our goal is to help you feel cared for, understood, and confident as you take the next step toward feeling your best again!
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence — the involuntary leakage of urine — is one of the most common but least talked-about health concerns for women. Many women believe bladder leakage is a "normal" part of aging or something they must simply live with. The truth is: urinary incontinence is common, but it is not normal, and it can be treated.
Urge Incontinence
Urinary urge incontinence is the sudden, intense need to urinate — followed by the loss of urine before reaching the bathroom. Many women describe it as "not being able to hold it" once the urge hits.
Stress Incontinence (SUI)
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is when urine leaks during physical activities that increase pressure on the bladder — such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting, or exercising.
Overactive Bladder (OAB)
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects bladder control. Women with OAB experience a sudden, hard-to-control urge to urinate. This can lead to frequent bathroom trips during the day and night, and sometimes accidental urine leakage when they can’t get to the bathroom fast enough (urge incontinence).
Prolapse
Vaginal prolapse, sometimes called pelvic organ prolapse, happens when the muscles and tissues that support the vagina weaken. As a result, one or more pelvic organs — such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum — may drop and press into the vaginal walls. This condition is common in women, especially after childbirth, menopause, or pelvic surgery.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (often called GSM) is a collection of symptoms that affect the vagina, vulva, bladder, and urinary tract after menopause. It happens because estrogen levels decrease, which can cause changes to the vaginal tissues and urinary system.
Blood in the Urine
Microscopic hematuria means there are red blood cells in your urine. You can’t see them with your eyes — they only show up on a urine test.
Vaginal Dryness
Postmenopausal vaginal dryness is a very common condition that occurs when estrogen levels decrease after menopause. Lower estrogen causes the vaginal tissue to become thinner, less elastic, and less lubricated. This can lead to discomfort during daily activities, exercise, or sexual intercourse.