Female Incontinence

Background

Unfortunately, female urinary incontinence is a very common problem.

Causes

Stress incontinence in females is common and may be related to childbirth, age, menopause, family history (genetics), nervous system disorders and previous pelvic surgery or trauma.  The initial treatment is pevic floor exercise or "Kegel's".  Surgery is usually reserved for women with persistent bothersome leakage.

Diagnosis & Evaluation

Treatment

Options include minimally-invasiive vaginal surgery (midurethral sling, TVT or TOT), abdominal surgery or endoscopic injection of urethral bulking agents. Your urologist will be able to discuss the details and relative benefits and risks of each.

On the Web

General Urology Websites

Canadian Urological Association  Extensive library of downloadable pamphlets on a wide range of urological conditions

Cleveland Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Medline Plus Produced by the US National Institutes of Health with information on virtually every health topic and extensive list of links

UrologyHealth.org The patient information site of the American Urological Association.