Gender dynamics and societal roles in South Africa can hinder women’s healthcare, as research shows that one-in-three women suffer from urinary incontinence and one-in-four have pelvic floor disorders—conditions often overlooked, leaving many to suffer in silence. Additionally, CANSA reports that breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers are the top three cancers affecting women.

“At Urology Hospital, we aim to dispel the myth that only men need to visit urologists,” says Dr Marinka Hoek, Urology Hospital. This wellness day aims to raise awareness, share knowledge, and provide women with the opportunity to discuss their health and wellness openly.

Chronic Kidney Disease: A Hidden Crisis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function, affects one-in-eight South Africans and over 850 million people globally, resulting in over 3.1 million deaths annually. Despite CKD being more common in women, more men receive kidney replacement therapy (KRT), likely due to faster CKD progression in men and reduced access to costly healthcare for women. Untreated kidney failure is life-threatening, making urgent awareness and action crucial.

Many women prioritise family needs and avoid seeking early care due to gendered power dynamics, socioeconomic pressures, and traditional roles that involve depending on others for healthcare decisions, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

Empowering Women Through Education and Support

“Some women are simply unsure where to seek help or too embarrassed to ask and may only seek assistance when their symptoms become unmanageable,” explains Dr Hoek. “We hope to raise awareness, share knowledge, and provide women with a platform to discuss their health.”

Specialised Treatment and Care at Urology Hospital

At Urology Hospital, we offer a range of specialised treatment and care. Our newly opened Dialysis Unit – the Uro Kidney Care provides comprehensive kidney care services for patients with acute and chronic kidney disease. Urology Hospital also features a state-of-the-art urodynamic unit, physiotherapy, robotic surgery, and a Pelvic Wellness Centre, all aimed at providing high-quality, patient-centred care.

Women’s Wellness Day: A First for Urology Hospital

On Wednesday, August 31st, Urology Hospital, South Africa’s leading specialised urology centre and a technological innovator in Africa, will host its inaugural Women’s Wellness Day. This groundbreaking event is dedicated to women’s health and wellness and will feature a series of discussions and activities designed to empower and educate women.

Wellness Day Programme:

1. Breast Health Session
2. Pelvic Floor Exercises
3. Bladder Health
4. Incontinence Management
5. Diet Tips
6. Sexual Health Discussions
7. Interactions with Our Female Specialists
8. Kidney Health Screening

Event Details:

• Date: 31 August 2024
• Time: 09:00 – 15:00
• Location: Urology Hospital, Pretoria

For more information and to book your spot, contact Urology Hospital on 012 423 4000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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