Stress Incontinence

Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), affects over 13 million Americans.

Simple everyday activities such as laughing, sneezing, coughing, jogging, exercising, and lifting may result in accidental leakage of urine.

The cause of stress Incontinence, SUI may be one or more of the following:

  • A poorly functioning internal sphincter muscle of the urethra
  • Excessive movement of the urethra do to a loss of support of the urethra
  • Weakened pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder and other organs

Conditions that may lead to SUI:

  • Previous gynecological surgery
  • Pregnancy and natural childbirth
  • Improperly developed tissue
  • Menopause
  • Strenuous exercise
  • And others

Diagnosis of SUI is by history, physical exam, laboratory studies, and Urodynamic or Cystometric testing.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for SUI

Pelvic Muscle Exercises (PME) Also known as Kegel exercises: PME techniques are an effective treatment option for stress incontinence. Most women require guidance from a medical professional to learn how to contract the pelvic floor muscles correctly. For specific instructions on how to do these exercises.

Biofeedback refers to a variety of techniques that teach patients bladder and pelvic muscle control by giving positive feedback when the patient performs the desired action. This feedback can be from an electronic device or directly from health professional. The use of muscle stimulation and behavioral therapy may be indicated in some cases.

Urethral Bulking Agents may help those patients with weak or poorly functioning urethral sphincter muscle. This treatment may be administered in an office setting under local anesthesia or mild sedation. Most patients are able to return to normal activity shortly following their procedure.

Learn more about Bulkamid

Renessa, a non-surgical treatment for SUI that uses a small device placed in the urethra under local anesthesia in the physicians office. The device heats the microscopic tissues at the base of the bladder to improve support. Treatment takes about 30 minutes and most women experience an improvement in their incontinence within 60 to 90 days. Clinical Trials have reported 76% of women continue to experience a reduction in daily incontinence episodes 12 months following the procedure, 68% of women use fewer pads each day, and 58% of women use zero pads.