Urinary Incontinence

The loss of bladder control is a common problem.

The most common types of incontinence are stress urinary incontinence, urge incontinence, and a combination of the two called mixed urinary incontinence. It is important to distinguish between them to individualize treatment. In order to achieve a better diagnosis, we perform a diagnostic procedure called an in-office urodynamic test, in which a catheter is used to measure the amount of urine left in the bladder after a patient has urinated.

For women of a certain age, or for those who have given birth, the sudden loss of bladder control may seem to occur with the slightest of provocations – such as the pelvic pressure of a cough, sneeze, or laugh. You may also have a strong, sudden urge to urinate that doesn’t allow you to get to the bathroom in time.

If the involuntary escape of urine is happening consistently, every day, you do have treatment options. You don’t have to resign yourself to wearing pads or other types of absorbent materials to help keep you dry during embarrassing “accidents.”

Dr. Sabella will evaluate your particular problem using a variety of diagnostic procedures that may include urinalysis, bladder stress test, ultrasound, urodynamic testing (in which the bladder is filled and then emptied while bladder pressure and effectiveness is measured), and cystoscopy (in which a thin tube is inserted into the urethra).

Urinary Incontinence Causes

  • Weak bladder muscles (which is a common issue with age)

  • Menopause

  • Pregnancy

  • Childbirth

  • Overactive bladder muscles

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Nerve damage

  • Certain foods and drink (caffeine, alcohol, large doses of vitamin C)

  • Certain medications (blood pressure medication, sedatives, muscle relaxants)

Dr. Sabella will suggest treatment options, depending on the extent of your urinary incontinence and its cause.

Urinary Incontinence Treatments

  • Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor

  • Lifestyle management surrounding fluid intake

  • Medication

  • Neuromodulation (electrical stimulation of nerves that control bladder function)

  • Intermittent self-catheterization

  • Robotic surgery without using mesh