The Institute For Women’s Health is dedicated to providing each of our patients with comprehensive care and part of that care is understanding and treating Incontinence. For many women being able to discuss Incontinence issues with a physician they know and trust eases any nervousness or embarrassment they might be feeling.
Urinary Incontinence is more common among women than men because of many factors such as pregnancy, menopause, and the structure of the female urinary tract. In addition incontinence can occur because of underlying conditions like spinal birth defect, obesity, or diabetes. The good news is that Incontinence can be treated and in some cases, can be cured.
The 10 Warning signs of Bladder Control Problems
- Leakage of urine that prevents you from participating in desired activities.
- Leakage of urine that causes you embarrassment.
- Need to rush to the bathroom/lose urine if you don’t get there in time.
- Leakage of urine, started after an operation.
- Inability to urinate following an operation.
- Pain related to filling the bladder or pain related to urination.
- Urinating more frequently than usually and no bladder infection.
- Frequent bladder infections.
- Progressive weakness of urinary stream.
- Abnormal urination or changes in urination.
Types of Urinary Incontinence
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Strong desire to urinate and the inability to control oneself before making it to the restroom.
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The bladder fills beyond capacity and small amounts of urine leak even though the person does not feel the need to urinate.
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The leakage of small amounts of urine when you sneeze, cough, laugh, or anything that causes abdominal pressure.
Because there are different types, degrees, and combinations of Incontinence, every individual will have different diagnosis and treatment plan. Our physicians provide through evaluation consisting of a medical history review and a physician and pelvic exam. In addition, a diagnostic test or a urodynamic study may be order to confirm the diagnosis.
Urodynamics and diagnostic Testing
Urodynamic testing
Is a simple, painless study that allows our physicians to evaluate any problems that may be occurring with your bladder. The test takes about 30 minutes to complete and does not involve any sedation. During the testing a small tube will be placed in the bladder and the vagina. Using a sterile solution the tubes will be filled to measure any pressure generated in your bladder. You may be asked to report any sensations you feel and to cough, bear down or stand. The results of the test will help our physicians to decide the best treatment for your specific type of problem.
Diagnostic Testing
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The patient provides a small sample of urine in order to test for a bacterial infection.
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During this testing the rate of your urine flow is measure to help reveal how well you bladder is functioning.
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Using a small tube inserted through the urethral opening, your physician will be able to see inside your urethra and bladder.
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A small thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the urethra and bladder in order to measure and record bladder pressure.
Treatment Options
After a diagnosis has been made, your physician may suggest a treatment option such as Kegel exercises, medication, or surgical correction. Remember, everyone is different and your treatment plan will be specific for your needs.
Urinary Incontinence can be treated
and the solution starts with us.
Call your physician today to schedule an appointment
to discuss your symptoms and available treatment options.
