Urogynecology Q & A

Why do I have urinary incontinence?

Whether your case of urinary incontinence is as simple as losing a little urine when you sneeze, or as complex as not being able to make it to the bathroom, you need to get to the root of the problem. Urinary incontinence is often a side effect of: 

• Dietary issues
• Bladder infections
• Constipation
• Pregnancy
• Giving birth
• Tumors or obstructions
• Neurological disorders
• Pelvic organ prolapse

What is a pelvic organ prolapse?

When a pelvic organ, like your bladder or rectum, drops down or prolapses, it starts pushing against the inner walls of your vagina. Not only can this be painful, it can also affect your ability to start a urine flow, or control your bladder altogether.

Having a pelvic organ prolapse is common if your pelvic floor muscles are weakened, especially if you’ve given birth. But it can also happen if you’re overweight, are frequently constipated, or have a chronic cough.

Many pelvic organ prolapse cases are mild and require you to strengthen your pelvic walls by doing exercises, like Kegels. In some cases, there can be a need to wear a pessary device to hold your bladder in place or have surgery to correct the issue.

How are bladder problems diagnosed?

Your board certified urogynecologist will typically use urodynamics to help diagnose your bladder issues. Urodynamics test the strength of your bladder, urethra, and sphincter, to see if they hold and release urine normally. Since there are many urodynamics tests available, your practitioner will recommend the tests needed, based on your symptoms. By the end of your evaluation, your provider should have a better understanding as to why you’re having problems and discuss options to improve your condition.

What types of treatments are available?

• Pelvic floor training
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Surgery
• Pessary
• Behavioral modifications
• Biofeedback
• Nerve stimulation

Additional Frequently Asked Questions are available here.