Whether it’s brought on by a good laugh, a strong cough, or just an overpowering urge to go, accidental urine leakage can be a frustrating – and sometimes embarrassing – experience. Those feelings of shame hold many women back from speaking up, but you don’t have to suffer in silence – urinary incontinence is a very common and highly treatable issue.
Most cases can be improved or resolved with guided lifestyle changes and/or medical treatment. Your social, emotional, and physical well-being are worth it – partnering with a compassionate provider will put you on the path towards taking back your control.
A Manageable, And Often Curable, Symptom
By definition, urinary incontinence is not a disease or condition – it’s a result of changes to your body that can be caused by pregnancy, childbirth, aging, obesity, weakened pelvic muscles, and urinary tract infections. Incontinence may begin at any age, and the amount of leakage may range from a few drops to a complete emptying of your bladder.
Types and Symptoms of Incontinence
Stress Incontinence – This most common type is usually triggered by physical movement – laughing, coughing, sneezing, exercising, lifting, or having sex.
Urge Incontinence – Often referred to as ‘overactive bladder’, this type usually involves a sudden, strong urge to urinate and/or very frequent urination.
Mixed Incontinence – It’s possible to have symptoms of both stress and urge incontinence. And you may experience leakage and/or full emptying of the bladder.
Functional – Despite having normal bladder function, other medical conditions like arthritis or neurological disorders may limit your ability to reach the restroom in time.
Treatment Options
Once your Axia Women’s Health provider pinpoints the cause of your incontinence, they will tailor a plan of care that may include some of the following treatments:
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: The therapist will use massage like techniques to stretch and strengthen your pelvic muscles, and you may be given exercises to complete at home.
- Bladder Training: By learning and implementing behavioral techniques, you will gradually train your mind and your bladder to empty on a more routine schedule.
- Medication: Prescription drugs and creams can reduce bladder contractions and rejuvenate damaged tissue.
- Supportive Devices: An over-the-counter option, a small tampon-like device can be inserted and removed daily to support the urethra and reduce leakage.
- Surgery: For those who haven’t responded to other treatments, surgery can bring a longer-term solution. It is, however, more invasive and doesn’t come without some risk.
Convenient, Compassionate Care
At Axia Women’s health, you’re at the center of your healthcare. Our providers empower patients to access and implement personalized care that brings your wellness back into balance.
Schedule a consultation and you’ll find open and supportive care with each one of our dedicated Urogynecology specialists.
