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Urinary Incontinence
Involuntary leakage of urine can occur for a variety of reasons. It affects up to 1 in 3 women after the age of 40, and by the age of 60, 1 in 2 women suffer from the disorder. The incidence is not limited only to older women, as it can occur in patients as young as 18 years of age. We also understand that at any age urinary incontinence may be associated with depression and social isolation. Also, many patients have experienced a partial response to prior therapy and may still be seeking better results and help.
At The University of Kansas Hospital, advanced diagnostic testing is utilized by fellowship-trained urogynecologists to target the cause(s) of incontinence. We can then offer a range of medical/non-invasive therapies as well as surgical options to cater to each patient's individual needs and condition.
Risk factors for urinary incontinence
- Changes in the anatomy of the urethra or bladder or pelvis after childbirth, menopause, or prior surgery (changes in the normal bladder and urethral support can affect the integrity of the urinary system).
- Menopause and hormonal changes (changes in estrogen levels and other hormones contribute to changes such as thinning in vaginal and urethral tissues).
- Weakness / deficits in pelvic floor strength and support (with age and deliveries, pelvic muscles often weaken despite performing Kegel exercises).
- Recurrent bladder infections and bladder wall inflammation (recurrent infections often result in hypersensitivity of the bladder and the need for frequent emptying).
- Spine and neurological disease (some medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and stroke, affect the nerves and the function of the bladder and urethra directly).
- Medications (whereas some medications can weaken the muscles of the urethra causing leakage, some others may weaken the bladder itself thus not allowing appropriate emptying. Also, some medications such as water pills cause your bladder to be overfilled rapidly causing leakage in some women).
- Being overweight (excessive weight may result in increased pressure on the bladder and pelvic muscles with activity).
- Medical conditions such as COPD and lower extremity swelling.
- Excessive intake of fluids (high water intake, such as when dieting or trying to satiate thirst, results in overfilling the bladder causing leakage).
Types of incontinence
Treatment options
Depending on the type of incontinence, treatments may vary. We offer many non-invasive state-of-the-art procedures. Treatment options include:
- Biofeedback techniques
- Pelvic muscle strengthening
- Bladder electrical stimulation
- Bladder BOTOX– injections
- Collagen injections
- Non-invasive sling procedures (same-day minor surgery)
- Interstim / neuromodulation (pacemaker for the bladder)
We offer a variety of appointment types. Learn more or call 913-588-1227 to schedule now.
What to expect
It is important that the proper evaluation be made to determine the type of incontinence. Each type is treated differently. Some require only medical treatment, whereas other types require surgical management. Incontinence often has multiple etiologies. To achieve a successful outcome, each of the underlying causes must be identified and addressed in the treatment plan.
Your initial evaluation with your physician begins with a comprehensive history and assessment of your ability to urinate. Your visit will also include a pelvic examination as well as a visual assessment of the urethral and vaginal anatomy. Additional testing may be recommended only if indicated and may be scheduled at a later time that is convenient for you.
Once your evaluation is complete, your physician will discuss the findings with you and suggest options for your treatment plan. These options often include non-surgical interventions as the first line for management. If conservative and medical management is not desired and surgery may be indicated, our fellowship-trained surgeons are specialized in minimally invasive surgery.
Furthermore, our physicians strive to work closely with you and your referring doctor to make sure you fully understand your treatment choices and develop a treatment plan that will fit your lifestyle and that is tailored for you.