Urinary Incontinence Specialist

What is urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is a condition where the bladder involuntarily releases urine; the patient may experience a small amount of urinary leakage or a complete loss of bladder control. There are two primary kinds of urinary incontinence. Stress incontinence causes a patient to involuntarily release a little urine during exercise, or when she sneezes, coughs, or laughs. Urge incontinence is different and is characterized by a sudden and uncontrollable need to urinate, even if the bladder was recently emptied.

Urinary incontinence is more common in women, because childbirth and menopause are common factors leading to the development of this embarrassing condition.

What causes urinary incontinence?

Several factors contribute to urinary incontinence. For example:

• Pelvic floor disorders that lead to insufficient support for the bladder cause stress incontinence
• Urinary tract infections can also often cause urine to leak from the body
• Constipation may also lead to incontinence.

Another cause of urinary incontinence is neuromuscular issues, where the brain is unable to effectively communicate with the bladder or urethra, leading to malfunction. Anatomical problems in the bladder or urethra, or blockages due to bladder stones, can also lead to urinary incontinence. Menopause can cause or exacerbate the problem as a result of a loss of the hormone estrogen and vaginal atrophy, which may cause the pelvic floor muscles to weaken.

How is urinary incontinence treated?

Dr. Abdul-Mbacke provides education to her patients on the importance of doing Kegel exercises, as well as encouraging patients to maintain a healthy weight and regulate their diets. That includes eliminating caffeine, citrus fruits, and spicy foods, which all have a tendency to irritate the bladder. Dr. Abdul-Mbacke also offers InterStim therapy and surgery as a form of treatment. 

When lifestyle changes don’t reduce the occurrence of incontinence, Dr. Abdul-Mbacke may prescribe a drug to correct the problem. In the most serious cases, surgery may be needed to repair and restore the bladder, urethra, or pelvic floor.

If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence, don’t be embarrassed: Many women needlessly suffer from this condition when treatment is readily available. Make an appointment to talk to Dr. Abdul-Mbacke today.