Don’t let Stress Incontinence Stress You Out

Do you leak when you cough, laugh or sneeze? Our pelvic floor specialists can help get you dry and back to your normal life with a quick, simple, and safe procedure

It’s embarrassing and uncomfortable: your coworker just said a funny joke, the flu is causing coughing and sneezing, or your evening workout routine has you leaking urine. Not only is it annoying, but it makes social interactions difficult.

At Vantage Medical Associates, a team of pelvic floor specialists are ready to treat your urinary incontinence and have you feeling like yourself again (minus the leaking). Book an appointment here.

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence (SUI) is when physical activity causes the involuntary loss of urine, putting strain on the bladder. It affects millions of people across the U.S., happening when the pelvic muscles are weakened and don’t correctly support the bladder and urethra.

What Types of Urinary Incontinence Are There?

Not every SUI is the same. Depending on the cause and symptoms, it can vary from person to person. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis to determine the next steps.

• Urgency incontinence: when the brain sends signals to the bladder that it’s time to go, even if not necessary, it’s called urgency incontinence. The main symptom is a sudden and strong urge to use the bathroom, with little control over the release of urine.
• Stress incontinence: as the name suggests, the bladder is under tension to urinate when pressure is applied to the area. This means that laughing, coughing, sneezing, walking, or even just lifting things can bring on involuntary leaking.
• Overflow incontinence: when the bladder doesn’t empty correctly, this type of SUI occurs. It can fill up with too much urine and overflow, causing annoying leakage.

Why Does Urinary Incontinence Happen?

Physical changes can cause an SUI to develop, including childbirth, pelvic surgery, menopause, hormonal deficiencies, obesity, and chronic constipation. It’s not all bad news: most people who seek treatment can improve their symptoms by consulting a medical professional. SUI is easily treated with lifestyle changes or simple surgery.

Should I Get Surgery for Urinary Incontinence?

If other treatments fail, your doctor can suggest surgery to improve the issue. Which surgical options are available for patients suffering from an SUI?

• Mid-urethral mesh slings: the most common operation for SUI, this safe and effective procedure can drastically improve symptoms. It entails placing mesh underneath the mid-urethra to provide support.
• pubovaginal/fascial bladder neck slings: by placing tissue underneath the urethra and suturing it to the abdominal muscles, sufferers can experience great relief.
• Burch colposuspension: this procedure is performed by placing stitches into the vaginal, securing them to ligaments in the pelvis. This provides support for the urinary system.
• Urethral bulking agent injections: for those seeking a less invasive option, this procedure injects a long-acting substance into the wall of the urethra, causing it to narrow.

Final Thoughts

Leaking can hinder your day-to-day life, which is why it’s so important to talk to a doctor about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Book an appointment right here.