Pelvic Prolapse

What is stress urinary incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence describes urine leaks that occur when pressure is put on your bladder during physical activity, sneezing, laughing, or coughing.

Stress incontinence is common in women, especially after childbirth and during the transition to menopause – both of which can weaken the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder.

Other conditions that can cause stress incontinence include:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Nerve injuries
• Pelvic prolapse
• History of hysterectomy

Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology provides comprehensive, in-office testing to identify what contributes to your incontinence issues. Its skilled physicians also offer a variety of treatments for women who are limited or embarrassed by stress urinary incontinence.

When should I schedule a consultation for stress urinary incontinence?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology if you have difficulties with bladder control and need help preventing urine leaks.

Your physician reviews your medical history and current health. They may order urine testing to check for infection and can perform an ultrasound of your bladder to ensure the organ is functioning properly.

Urodynamic testing is available to assess how well your urinary tract holds urine. Your physician checks how much urine is still in your bladder after you urinate. In some cases, you may need a cystoscopy, a procedure that uses a slender scope to examine your urinary tract up close.

How is stress incontinence treated?

For mild incontinence, your Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology physician may suggest pelvic floor exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your bladder. Daily exercise can also help you lose excess weight to relieve pressure on your bladder.

If you have moderate to severe urine leaks, you may need a pessary device that holds your bladder in place and prevents unexpected urine leaks. The practice’s physicians also offer surgery to place a sling under the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body).

Women who are in menopause may benefit from hormone replacement therapy. Hormonal creams, gels, patches, and injections are available to strengthen vaginal tissues and muscles that support your bladder.

Call the Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology office nearest you to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for stress urinary incontinence symptoms or book an appointment online today.