Genital Fistula
Get Help for Your Genital Fistula
A genital fistula is a type of pelvic floor disorder, and is an opening between two organs in the pelvic region. Fistulas between the genital and urinary tracts can happen in women who have a prolonged childbirth or have trauma from surgery, infection, inflammation, or radiation treatment.
Types of genital fistulas include:
- Vesicovaginal fistula — an opening between the bladder and vagina
- Rectovaginal fistula — an opening between the vagina and rectum
- Colovaginal fistula — an opening between the vagina and colon
- Urogenital tract fistula — an opening between the vagina and the ducts that carry urine
- Enterovaginal fistula — an opening between the small intestine and the vagina
Genital Fistula Symptoms
The symptoms of genital fistulas depend on the type of fistula and the size of the opening. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Foul-smelling gas
- Frequent infections
- Fever
- Genital pain
- Nausea
- Pain during intercourse
- Vomiting
- Weight-loss
Genital Fistula Surgery
Fistulas are treatable — but they do not heal without treatment. The women’s health specialists at Bassett Healthcare Network will perform a thorough physical exam and may order additional tests, including blood tests and imaging studies.
Most fistulas are repaired through minimally invasive surgery or robotic surgery using the da Vinci surgical system.
Comprehensive Care for Genital Fistula
If you have been diagnosed with genital fistulas or have symptoms you are concerned about, contact our women’s health specialists to request an appointment and learn more about your treatment options.
Bassett Healthcare Network offers diagnosis and treatment for genital fistulas in Central New York, including in Cooperstown, Cobleskill, Hamilton, Herkimer, and Oneonta.