Incontinence

Incontinence is a common and frustrating condition, especially for women. Aside from the physical difficulties, the emotional and mental impact of this condition means you need compassionate care and treatment. Robert L. Martin, MD, of Women’s Health and Wellness in Dallas understands that incontinence significantly affects your overall sense of well-being. If you would like an expert consultation, call or book an appointment online at Women’s Health and Wellness today.

Incontinence Q & A

 

What is incontinence?

Incontinence is when you do not have control of when you urinate or are unable to hold urine inside your bladder. Around 35% of American women over the age of 65 and 10% of women under 65 suffer from this condition. It is a frustrating and embarrassing, regardless of your age.

There are several types of incontinence, but the two most common are:

Stress incontinence

When the bladder has sudden stress, as with a laugh, cough, or sneeze, and leaks urine, this is called stress incontinence. This is caused by weakened pelvic and bladder muscles.

Urge incontinence

When there is an urgent sense that you need to urinate and may be unable to get to a bathroom — even if there isn’t any urine in your bladder — this is called urge incontinence. This is usually the result of an infection or condition affecting your nerves.

What are the causes of incontinence?

In order to determine the exact cause of your incontinence, Dr. Martin completes a thorough health history and physical exam. There are several possible causes for your incontinence, including:

  • Menopause, which results in vaginal dryness, making incontinence worse and vice versa
  • Childbirth, which weakens the urinary muscles
  • Age, which is associated with decreased muscle tone and loss of elasticity in the tissues
  • Side effects from some medications
  • Nerve conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke
  • Immobility, which delays getting to the bathroom on time
  • Infection of the bladder, kidney, or urinary tract

 

How do you treat incontinence?

Your treatment options depend on the cause or causes of your incontinence. Dr. Martin is able to take your health history into account and determine the best treatment plan for you.

Some treatment options may include:

  • Medication
  • Antibiotics
  • Muscle training
  • Assistive devices
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Surgery

Dr. Martin is also proud to offer Votiva, a revolutionary vaginal rejuvenation technique that can restore the muscle tone of the pelvic floor, including the urinary muscles. This treatment, which uses radiofrequency, is primarily for the type of incontinence caused by weakened muscles or lax vaginal tissues.

If you would like to explore your treatment options, including Votiva vaginal rejuvenation, for incontinence, call or book an appointment online with Dr. Martin today.

Women