Do not postpone necessary care however, in general, surgeries for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse can be safely delayed for several months.

Below is a list of questions you may want to consider:

1. Is it harmful for me to delay surgery for prolapse or incontinence?
   1. In general it is safe to delay surgery for prolapse and incontinence. You should discuss timing of treatment with your surgeon
2. Do I have to stay overnight in the hospital after surgery?
   1. There is a lot of evidence that it is safe for many patients to be discharged home the day of surgery. This is something to discuss with your surgeon prior to your surgery.
3. Do I have to wear a mask to come to the hospital or clinic?
   1. In general most hospitals are requiring that patients wear masks to come to their office visits and to the hospital. If you do not have a mask, one is typically provided for you.  Your temperature may also be checked while you are coming into the hospital
4. What has my doctors office done to make it safe for staff and patients?
   1. A lot of offices have instituted protocols to keep patients safe from COVID 19. You may get a phone call a couple of days prior to your appointment to screen you for symptoms. Once you arrive at your doctor’s office, you may be asked those same questions again. Most likely, everyone you see will be wearing a mask.
5. Is it safe for me to  get an in office procedure?         
   1. This will be up to each individual doctor. Some doctor’s offices may ask that you get screened for COVID-19 prior to getting an office procedure
6. What should I do if I feel sick before my appointment?
   1. If you have any symptoms and you are worried that you have COVID-19 or have been exposed you should call your doctors office and speak to a healthcare provider. You may have to delay your appointment for the safety of your healthcare team and other patients. Review symptoms here. If you are feeling sick please review these guidelines.
7. What should I do if a family member I am in contact with has COVID-19?
   1. Prior to visiting any hospital or doctor’s office you should call the office and let them know about your family member. You may need extra screening prior to your visit.
8. Can I have visitors if I am admitted to the hospital?
   1. Most hospitals are trying to limit the amount of people who are entering the hospital.
9. Will my doctor use extra precautions during my surgery?
   1. Each hospital has their own protocol for extra precautions during your surgery. You can call the hospital for details.
10. Is there a way to see my doctor without coming to the hospital?
    1. Your doctor may offer you a visit over the phone or by video chat. This is called a telehealth visit and you may be able to get some assistance with your medical problem without being seen in person.
11. What should I do if I have other medical problems?
    1. If you have other medical conditions that you are worried about you should talk to your doctor about whether coming to the hospital is the best option for you. 
12. I have been using a pessary but my clinic appointment keeps getting delayed. How long can I keep a pessary in place?
    1. There is very good evidence that it is safe for you to use a pessary without removal for up to six months.