Treatment of Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is not a “normal part of aging”—it is a medical condition that can be effectively treated.

Understanding the Types

  • Stress Incontinence: Leakage during physical activity, coughing, or sneezing. This is often due to a weak pelvic floor or urethral hypermobility.

  • Urge Incontinence: A sudden, intense need to urinate followed by involuntary leakage (Overactive Bladder).

Treatment Progression

  1. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Specialized exercises (Kegels) guided by a therapist to strengthen the “hammock” of muscles supporting the bladder.

  2. Pharmacotherapy: Medications like anticholinergics to relax the bladder muscle for urge incontinence.

  3. Surgical Slings (TVT/TOT): A “Mid-urethral Sling” is a gold-standard surgery where a small piece of mesh is placed under the urethra to act like a backstop, preventing leaks during exertion.