Stress Incontinence - How to deal with it?

Stress incontinence is a condition related to pelvic muscles that affect the number of men and women across the world. The presence of weak pelvic muscles puts additional pressure on the bladder during sudden and intensive physical movements such as coughing, running, sneezing, or lifting heavyweights. Those who suffer from it experience involuntary urine leaks when there is a sudden pressure on the bladder. These people, therefore, isolate themselves or limit their work and social life. Stress incontinence could result due to a number of factors, with pelvic or abdominal surgery, obesity, pregnancy, and menopause being a few. However, with proper treatment, it can be managed and improve one’s overall well-being. The following can help alleviate stress incontinence. 

Pelvic Floor Exercises: Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, strengthen the urinary sphincter and pelvic floor muscles, thus improving the ability to control urinary urges. These are very simple and can be done while going to work, sitting at the desk in the office, or even while having dinner.  One can learn the trick to do them correctly from the therapist. A technique called biofeedback is used to make these exercises more effective. 

Urethral Inserts: Urethral inserts are tampon-like disposable devices that act to prevent leakage. They are inserted into the urethra of the person to stop incontinence for a particular period of time, during the specific activity, but can be worn throughout the day also. There are many people who prefer adult diapers for incontinence but urethral inserts are a better option, especially when performing activities such as running or repeated lifting. 

Injections: Use of injectable bulking agents such as synthetic polysaccharides and gels are effective in improving the movement of the sphincter. These injections are injected into the tissues around the urethra (upper portion). Since this method is less invasive than surgery, people generally prefer this over surgical options. However, it is not a permanent method as one may require multiple injections to keep the discomfort at bay. Your consulting physician would assist by checking you thoroughly with the Littmann stethoscope and other instruments before recommending this treatment.   It is important to note here that though the above steps can reduce stress incontinence, people may still suffer from the problem (urine leakage) every now and then. The best way to deal with the incontinence is to be prepared well in advance for it; stock up on supplies like urethral inserts and adult diapers. On our website, be assured of a wide range of instruments you can choose from to combat stress incontinence.