The COVID-19 pandemic is a public health crisis that requires the full attention and resources of our health care systems. The pandemic will create stress on health care systems throughout the country, especially in under-resourced areas.

In March, the Surgeon General recommended that hospitals stop elective – or non-essential – surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight organizations, including the American Urogynecologic Society, came together to make the following recommendations for obstetrician-gynecologists, including urogynecologists.

• Elective surgeries should be suspended as directed in the Surgeon General’s recommendation.
• Many surgeries performed by obstetrician-gynecologists are necessary for patient health and safety.
  • The decision whether to schedule these surgeries should consider:
    • The number of COVID-19 cases in the area and the risks and resources available.
    • If delaying the surgery will negatively affect patient health and safety.
  • In areas with many COVID-19 cases, these surgeries should be delayed when it does not present a risk to patient health.
  • Procedures should not be delayed if it will endanger the patient. This includes gynecologic procedures and procedures related to pregnancy for which delay would harm patient health.

Talk to your doctor to learn how your treatment may be affected during this time.

Read the full statement here: Joint Statement on Elective Surgeries from ACOG, AAGL, ASRM, AUGS, SFP, SGS, SMFM, and SGO