Comprehensive Women's Healthcare
Stress urinary incontinence (STI) is the most common type of urinary incontinence in women. It is characterized by the leakage of urine during moments of physical activity that increases pressure in the abdomen. These moments might include laughing, coughing, sneezing, or exercise.
SUI can occur when pelvic tissues and muscles weaken; because they support the bladder and urethra, this allows the bladder "neck" (the point where the bladder intersects with the urethra) to descend during spurts of physical activity. This prevents the urethra from working as it should to control the flow of urine. SUI can also occur when the sphincter muscle controlling the urethra weakens; it is then no longer able to stop the flow of urine under normal circumstances or when abdominal pressure increases.
It's important to consult with your health care professional if you suspect you might have stress urinary incontinence.Treatment Options for Stress Urinary Incontinence
There are surgical and non-surgical options to treat SUI. Surgery won't be the right option for everyone; you'll need to consider the severity of your symptoms and the severity of their effect on your daily activities. You'll also need to consider whether you want to become pregnant down the line; vaginal delivery can cause SUI symptoms to start again, which could require surgery again. If you decide to avoid or postpone surgery, there are other treatment possibilities that don't require surgical intervention. Nonsurgical options for stress urinary incontinence include pelvic floor exercises, inserting a pessary to support the bladder neck, or injecting collagens around the urethra to thicken the space.
Consult Your Obstetrician to Learn More
If you believe you're suffering from stress urinary incontinence and would like advice on how to proceed, reach out to book an appointment with our office. We specialize in women's healthcare and will be able to review your condition to help you make a decision. If you choose surgical intervention for your condition, we'll help prepare you for the procedure and brief you on what to expect. If you decide to try alternative options, we can advise you on the best course of action and answer any questions you might have. Our professionals have years of experience and will review your condition with compassion. While SUI can be a difficult condition to live with, relief is available. Reach out to our office today to learn more about your options!
