STRESS INCONTINENCE
Are you limited in your activities because you leak? SUI is leakage with cough, sneeze, or exercise. It is a result of weak pelvic floor muscles or a weak urinary sphincter.
First line therapy is pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegels. You can do this on your own but sometimes that is not enough. Physical therapy is also a great option, and Bellingham is blessed with great female pelvic therapists. We can refer you and usually insurance covers this well.
Intone is a great tool to use at home for treatment of SUI and we are trained in its use and adjustments.
Urethral bulking is a procedure done in office for women who haven't been successful with pelvic exercises. It usually lasts a few years, requiring repeat injections over time.
Mid urethral slings are the most common surgery done in America for SUI. This is a minimally invasive option, requiring only 30 minutes under anesthesia. Like all surgery, there are risks, so choose a provider who does many a week and is open to discussion about the pros and cons of this surgery.
URGENCY INCONTINENCE
Urge incontinence is leakage of urine that happens from Overactive Bladder (OAB). Typically, a women will feel a sudden, strong urge to urinate and cannot hold it until she makes it to the restroom. This is usually caused by abnormal detrusor (bladder muscle) contractions which create a very strong pressure that is difficult to overcome by your sphincter.
There are many reasons that can cause OAB, including diet triggers, neurological problems, or even infection. Treatment options are the same as for OAB, so please see our page devoted to overactive bladder.
