Evaluation & Treatment

Stress Incontinence

This is the most common type of urinary incontinence, occurring frequently among women who have given birth or have gone through menopause.

Stress incontinence refers to physical pressure, rather than “mental stress”. When the bladder and muscles involved in urinary control are placed under sudden extra pressure the person may urinate involuntarily. The following actions may be triggers for stress incontinence:

• Sudden cough
• Sneezing
• Laughing
• Heavy lifting
• Exercise

The amount of urine that leaks out involuntarily depends on how full the bladder is and how affected the muscles are. There are many other types of incontinence and conditions that may cause incontinence. If you are having difficulty holding your urine, it is best to check with your medical provider or gynecologist to determine the cause and possible treatment options.

Treatments for Urinary Incontinence

At New River Women’s Health, we can offer guidance and tips to help manage incontinence. Treatment options may include:

• Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, consuming less fluid, avoiding caffeine
• Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, help strengthen the urinary sphincter and pelvic floor muscles – the muscles that help control urination
• Medications
• Interventional Therapies
• Pessary insertion
• Possibly Surgery depending on the severity of your condition

If you are dealing with urinary incontinence, New River Women’s Health is here to help you. There are many treatment options available to you and we will partner with you to determine the best option for you.