Dr. Sarah Boyles, UroGynecologist, answers patient questions about this common disease. Dr. Boyles specializes in female incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse and enjoys helping women regain control of these issues and improve their quality of life. Learn more about Dr. Boyles or request an appointment by clicking here.
Are there any ways for me to help my symptoms from home, or with non-surgical options?
Urinary incontinence is a quality of life condition—it is only considered to be a problem when it is bothersome for the individual. Like so many health conditions, urinary incontinence can be helped by maintaining ideal body weight and quitting smoking. Improving your core strength will help as well. This can be done with Kegels or with the help of a physical therapist, but many women prefer Pilates or yoga, which have also been shown to help. Paying attention to the volume of fluid you drink as well as limiting bladder irritants can help.
I’ve already tried to control my symptoms without surgery, and they don’t work. What now?
When these simple measures don’t help, it is time to look for help! Leaking with coughing or exercise can often be helped with a quick same-day surgery. Leaking before you get to the bathroom can be helped with medications, botox injections or nerve stimulation. There are many ways to help with bladder leaking—the first step is to start talking about it!
To learn more about urinary incontinence and what The Oregon Clinic’s team of specialists in UroGynecology can do for you, visit www.oregonclinic.com/stress-urinary-incontinence