PATIENT GUIDE TO FEMALE INCONTINENCE

What is urinary incontinence?

There are four forms of urinary incontinence: stress, urge, overflow and reflex and these forms may exist together, particularly stress and urgency incontinence. Stress incontinence occurs when the urinary sphincter, the muscle that controls the flow of urine, is unable to resist normal bladder pressure. Common causes of stress incontinence are: dropping of the bladder after pregnancy and childbirth, intrinsic failure of the sphincter, hormone deficiency or as a result of previous pelvic surgery.

How is urinary stress incontinence treated?

The treatments for stress incontinence are based on the cause. If the bladder has dropped significantly, then suspension is the usual treatment. Intrinsic failure can often be helped by injection of bulking agents. Hormone therapy can alleviate symptoms where these hormones are lacking.

In general, lifestyle changes such as weight loss and improved physical conditioning can often help dramatically. Smoking is a major factor in many cases of incontinence and cessation therapy is vital. Medications may help alleviate symptoms as well.

In order to provide the correct treatment, a complete diagnostic study may be necessary including a thorough initial exam. Cystoscopy may be required in order to look into the bladder and better determine the cause of incontinence. Often urodynamic testing is required which will help ascertain the extent of the incontinence and thereby help determine the treatment necessary.