Stress Urinary Incontinence

What is stress urinary incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence means leakage of urine with activities like coughing, laughing, or sneezing.  This type of urinary leakage occurs because of general wear and tear over time to the pelvic muscles.  The urethra (the tube through which you urinate) looses its support from the pelvic floor muscles, causing urine to leak with activities.

How is stress urinary incontinence treated?

The treatment for stress urinary incontinence depends on your type of prolapse, severity of symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals.  There are non-surgical and surgical options. Your doctor will help you select the best option for you.

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Non-surgical options include:

• Observation

• Lifestyle modifications (weight loss, anti-cough medications, etc.)

• Pelvic floor physical therapy

• Pessary

• Intra-vaginal inserts

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Surgical options include:

• Urethral Bulking Agent

• Mid-urethral Sling