How is Stress Urinary Incontinence treated?

How is Stress Urinary Incontinence treated?

Treatments of stress urinary incontinence are tailored to suit your individual problem.

The following should be considered:

Pelvic floor muscle strengthening 

Strengthening the supporting muscles of your bladder is very effective in helping stress urinary incontinence. Biofeedback, or the use of special computer equipment to measure muscle activity, can help improve muscle control. Electrical stimulation can also assist in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.

•             Deep abdominal  or core strengthening

•             Learning the knack – this is when you contract your pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles prior to coughing (or whatever triggers your incontinence)

•             Lifestyle changes

•            Posture

•            Adjusting activities e.g.- avoid jumping until your symptoms improve

•             Weight loss if necessary

•             Vaginal splinting if necessary

Studies show 85% of women with Stress Incontinence are cured with Physiotherapy treatment

To prevent urinary incontinence, you should consider the following:

•             Routine performance of pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises

•             Cessation of smoking

•             Avoidance or correction of obesity, or chronic cough

•             Increased daily intake of fiber and fluid to prevent constipation, a risk factor for urinary incontinence

•             Avoidance of bladder irritants such as alcohol and caffeine

•             Staying physically active. Individuals who are physically active are less likely to develop urinary incontinence

•             Discussing the possibilities and risks of estrogen replacement therapy with your physician