Urinary Incontinence

What is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, leading to the accidental leakage of urine. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, but it is more prevalent in women, especially as they age. Urinary incontinence can range from occasionally leaking urine when you cough or sneeze, to having an urge to urinate that’s so sudden and strong that you don’t get to the bathroom in time. This condition can be embarrassing and can interfere with daily activities, but it is treatable.

What Causes Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors. In women, it often occurs due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, which can happen after childbirth, due to aging, or as a result of menopause. Hormonal changes, particularly the decrease in estrogen during menopause, can also contribute to the weakening of the tissues that support the bladder. Other causes include urinary tract infections, certain medications, and chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and neurological disorders. In some cases, urinary incontinence can be caused by an overactive bladder, which sends signals to the brain that you need to urinate more frequently than normal.

Available Treatments for Urinary Incontinence

At New Jersey Urogynecology, we offer several effective treatments for urinary incontinence. The treatment plan is tailored to each individual’s specific needs and may include lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or surgical interventions.

• Lifestyle Changes and Pelvic Floor Exercises:
  In many cases, simple changes in your daily habits can help manage urinary incontinence. This may include reducing the intake of bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol, scheduling regular bathroom breaks, and practicing pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, to strengthen the muscles that control urination.
• Medication:
  Medications may be prescribed to treat the underlying causes of urinary incontinence. For instance, anticholinergics can help calm an overactive bladder, while other medications may be used to manage symptoms of stress incontinence by improving the tone of the urethral sphincter.
• Bulkamid® Procedure:
  The Bulkamid® procedure is a minimally invasive treatment option for stress urinary incontinence. It involves injecting a soft hydrogel called Bulkamid into the urethral wall to help it close more effectively, reducing or preventing urine leakage. This procedure is performed in the office and is typically quick, with minimal discomfort.
• Surgical Treatments:
  For more severe cases of urinary incontinence, surgical options may be recommended. One common procedure is the sling surgery, where a small strip of mesh is placed under the urethra to support it and prevent urine leakage during activities like coughing or lifting. Other surgical options include bladder neck suspension and sacral nerve stimulation, depending on the type and severity of incontinence.

FAQs About Urinary Incontinence

How to correct urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence can be managed or corrected through various methods depending on the type of incontinence. For stress incontinence, strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels is essential. Bladder training can help with urge incontinence, while managing fluid intake and avoiding triggers can also improve bladder control. In some cases, surgical options like sling procedures or treating an enlarged prostate may be necessary. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial for a personalized treatment plan.

How to cope with incontinence?

Coping with incontinence involves a combination of lifestyle changes, exercises, and sometimes medical intervention. Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can strengthen the muscles that control urination, reducing leaks. Bladder training can also help manage the urge to urinate. Wearing absorbent pads and planning regular