2025 Urogynecology for the Advanced Practice Provider-Overactive Bladder

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Cheryl Carter-Brooks, a distinguished faculty member at GW in Washington D.C., is an expert in urogynecology, particularly in managing overactive bladder (OAB). As the Assistant OB-GYN Residency Program Director and Director of Equity at her department, she was recently awarded by the AOA Honor Society and acknowledged as a top doctor in Washingtonian Magazine. Overactive bladder is a prevalent issue affecting both men and women, with symptoms like urinary urgency and frequency that often go undiagnosed and untreated due to embarrassment or misdiagnosis.<br /><br />Dr. Carter-Brooks emphasizes the importance of comprehensive patient history and office evaluations, including pelvic exams and bladder scans, to effectively diagnose OAB. Behavioral interventions, such as fluid management, bladder retraining, and pelvic floor therapy, are cornerstone treatments that can reduce symptoms significantly. Pharmacotherapy, with anti-muscarinics and beta agonists, is also commonly used, though side effects and risks like cognitive decline in the elderly warrant careful management.<br /><br />Emphasizing early intervention and considering socio-economic and demographic factors, Dr. Carter-Brooks advocates for equitable healthcare access, noting existing disparities, particularly for marginalized groups. Her approach ensures tailored patient care through thorough assessments and a commitment to advancing quality treatments.

Asset Subtitle

At the end of this session, the learner should be able to:

Identify the key aspect of a patient history to diagnose OAB and target reversible causes
List the key components of the physical examination used for the evaluation of OAB
Understand when additional office testing or imaging is required
Explain first, second-, and third-line treatments for OAB

Speaker - Charelle Carter-Brooks, M.D., M.Sc.

Keywords

urogynecology

overactive bladder

equitable healthcare

behavioral interventions

pharmacotherapy

patient care

health disparities

Dr. Cheryl Carter-Brooks