Stress Incontinence Treatment – Regain Bladder Control and Confidence at Minnerva Clinic

Stress Urinary Incontinence occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) and the bladder neck are weakened or damaged. When abdominal pressure increases, these weakened support structures fail to keep the urethra closed, leading to urine leakage.

Common causes and risk factors for SUI include:

• Pregnancy & Childbirth: Vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken pelvic floor muscles and supportive tissues.
• Aging & Menopause: Hormonal changes (decreased estrogen) and natural tissue aging can lead to loss of muscle tone and elasticity.
• Chronic Coughing: Conditions like chronic bronchitis or smoking can put persistent strain on the pelvic floor.
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor.
• High-Impact Activities or Heavy Lifting: Repetitive straining can contribute to weakening.
• Previous Pelvic Surgery: Some surgical procedures can affect pelvic support structures.
• Genetics: Some individuals may have a predisposition to weaker connective tissues.

How Stress Incontinence Treatments Work:

The goal of treatment is to improve the support of the urethra and bladder neck, allowing the urethra to remain closed during increases in abdominal pressure.

• Conservative & Non-Surgical Treatments:
  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (Kegel Exercises): Strengthening these muscles can improve urethral support, often guided by a physiotherapist.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, managing chronic cough, and fluid management.
  • Vaginal Pessaries: A removable device inserted into the vagina to support the urethra.
  • Energy-Based Devices (Laser or Radiofrequency): Some non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments may also improve mild SUI by stimulating collagen and strengthening periurethral tissues.
  • PRP (O-Shot®): Injections of Platelet-Rich Plasma around the urethra and vaginal tissues may promote tissue regeneration and improve support for some women.
• Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments:
  • Urethral Bulking Agents: A substance is injected into the tissues around the urethra to "bulk it up" and help it close more effectively.
  • Sling Procedures (Mid-Urethral Slings): A small strip of synthetic mesh or occasionally the patient's own tissue is placed under the urethra like a hammock to provide support. This is a highly effective surgical option.
  • Bladder Neck Suspension: An older surgical technique involving sutures to support the bladder neck, now less commonly performed due to the success of slings.

SUI treatments aim to:

• Prevent or significantly reduce involuntary urine leakage during physical stress.
• Restore bladder control and confidence.
• Improve quality of life and allow for unrestricted participation in daily activities.
• Provide a lasting solution for bothersome SUI symptoms.

If you experience involuntary urine leakage when you cough, sneeze, laugh, exercise, or lift something, and it bothers you or impacts your daily life, seeking treatment for Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) is highly recommended. Treatment might be suitable for you if:

• →You regularly leak urine during physical exertion or activities that increase abdominal pressure.
• →Your SUI symptoms affect your confidence, social interactions, ability to exercise, or overall quality of life.
• →You wish to reduce or eliminate the need for absorbent pads or protective garments.
• →You are seeking effective solutions to regain bladder control.
• →You are in good general health and, for surgical options, are a suitable candidate for anesthesia and surgery.
• →You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of different treatment options.

It's important not to assume that SUI is a normal part of aging or childbirth that you simply have to live with. Effective treatments are available. A thorough consultation at Minnerva Clinic is essential. Our specialists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical exam, urodynamic testing (if needed), and a detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history. This will help determine the type and severity of your incontinence and guide the recommendation for the most appropriate and effective treatment plan for you.

• ✔️Specialized Expertise in Female Pelvic Health: Our team includes gynecologists, urologists, and urogynecologists with specialized training and experience in diagnosing and treating various forms of urinary incontinence.
• ✔️Comprehensive Range of Treatment Options: We offer a full spectrum of SUI solutions, from conservative management and non-surgical therapies to advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedures like mid-urethral slings.
• ✔️Personalized Treatment Plans Based on Thorough Evaluation: We conduct detailed assessments, including urodynamic studies when necessary, to accurately diagnose your condition and tailor the most effective treatment strategy.
• ✔️Focus on Achieving Lasting Bladder Control & Improved Quality of Life: Our primary goal is to provide significant and durable relief from SUI symptoms, enabling you to live more confidently and actively.
• ✔️Commitment to Patient Safety, Comfort, and Discretion: We understand the sensitive nature of incontinence and provide all consultations and treatments in a private, supportive, and professional medical environment.
• ✔️Utilizing Advanced, Clinically Proven Techniques: We stay current with the latest advancements in SUI treatment to offer you the most effective and minimally disruptive options available.