Urinary Incontinence Specialist

What is urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence describes problems with bladder control. The condition results in accidental leaks or accidents. Two common forms of urinary incontinence include:

• Stress incontinence: stress to your bladder from sneezing, coughing, jumping, or laughing causes leaks
• Urge incontinence: you can’t make it to the bathroom on time when you have the sudden urge to urinate

What causes urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence could be the result of any number of factors, the most common of which include:

• Diuretic food, drink, or medication use
• Urinary tract infection
• Weakened or stretched pelvic muscles caused by childbirth
• Vaginal dryness and thinning after menopause
• Medication side effects
• Excess body weight pressing on the bladder
• Pelvic prolapse

When should I see a doctor about urinary incontinence?

Never hesitate to reach out to Dr. Soini if you experience urinary incontinence. You should also consider consulting Dr. Soini for the following scenarios:

• Urinary incontinence is frequent and inconvenient
• You experience urinary incontinence despite your efforts to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles
• You avoid social activities or miss work due to your bladder problems
• Your urinary incontinence causes significant embarrassment or affects your quality of life

Although it’s an embarrassing problem, urinary incontinence is quite common in Dr. Soini’s practice. He handles your sensitive issue with care and compassion.

How do you treat urinary incontinence?

Dr. Soini starts with the least invasive treatment methods and uses more progressive techniques as needed.

Behavioral modification

Bladder training and pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) help many women regain control of their bladder function. Bladder training involves urinating at specific intervals, double voiding, and fluid management.

Medication

Medications to relax bladder muscles may help you manage urge incontinence. If menopausal hormone changes contribute to your problem, you may benefit from topical estrogen.

Assistive Devices

Dr. Soini can provide a urethral insert, a tampon-like disposable device that prevents leakage. He can also give you a pessary, a vaginal insert that supports the bladder for prolapse issues.

Surgery

Most women find relief from urinary incontinence with non-invasive interventions, but Dr. Soini provides surgical options for those who don’t. Dr. Soini performs specialized surgery such as sling or suspension procedures and prolapse surgery at his practice.

If you’d like to discuss urinary incontinence with an understanding doctor, contact Discovery Medical Center online or over the phone.