Living with Polycystic ovaries-urethral sphincter dysfunction syndrome
A condition, also called Fowler syndrome, that mainly affects young women and makes it hard to empty the bladder.
Understanding Polycystic ovaries-urethral sphincter dysfunction syndrome
It is caused by spasms of the external urethral sphincter, a band of muscle at the exit of the bladder. Many women have no other symptoms, though some have stomach pain. It can begin from childhood to adulthood. It is hard to diagnose, but many women have unusual electrical activity on a test called concentric needle electromyography.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these:
- Not able to empty the bladder (urinary retention)
- Painful or difficult urination
- Polycystic ovaries
- Stomach pain in some women
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include urinary and male reproductive system specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
- 4Connect with expert centers
National Association for Continence (NAFC) may keep lists of experts for this condition.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Urinary and male reproductive system specialists (urologists)
- Expert care
- Expert lists: National Association for Continence (NAFC)
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with National Association for Continence (NAFC)
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says the cause is unknown. It has been known to occur after surgery, childbirth, opiate use or another medical condition.
Also known as: fowler christmas chapple syndrome; fowler urethral sphincter dysfunction syndrome; fowler-christmas-chapple syndrome; fowler's syndrome; polycystic ovaries urethral sphincter dysfunction; voiding dysfunction and polycystic ovaries
Patient organizations
- National Association for Continence (NAFC)Polycystic ovaries-urethral sphincter dysfunction syndrome · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Polycystic ovaries-urethral sphincter dysfunction syndrome.
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