Many women, at some point in their life, may experience urinary incontinence. This subject can be very embarrassing for women to bring up to their doctor, but it is important for patients to discuss this condition with a professional. Dr. Craig Ranch of McKinney, TX is a doctor who is pleased to educate women on this condition. He can also provide patients with possible treatment options based on their needs.
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the inability to hold urine, often resulting in involuntary leakage or urinating without the intention. It is much more common in women than men, and affects millions of Americans. While it can be embarrassing to admit, it is essential that women speak to their doctor about their condition to find effective treatment.
What treatments are available for urinary incontinence?
Depending on the type of incontinence and the severity, there may be several options to choose from in terms of treatment solutions. Some treatments may include:
• Behavioral techniques – sometimes, a doctor may make recommendations regarding bladder training. This may include holding urine when feeling the urge, double voiding the bladder, scheduling specific trips to the toilet throughout the day, and managing diet and fluid intake.
• Exercises – many women with mild urinary incontinence may benefit from pelvic floor muscle exercises, including Kegel exercises, that can be performed daily to help urge incontinence and stress incontinence.
• Electrical therapies – at a doctor’s office, electrodes can be inserted into the vagina to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles and help strengthen them. Multiple treatments may be needed to see noticeable results from electrical stimulation.
• Medication – there are several medications that may be prescribed that are used for patients experiencing incontinence, and they may include anticholinergic, alpha blockers, and topical estrogen.
• Medical devices – medical devices such as pessaries and urethral inserts may be used for reducing urination and preventing leakage.
• Interventional therapies – some patients find results with injections of Botox for overactive bladder, or nerve stimulators that can be used in controlling urge incontinence.
• Surgical treatments – when other therapies have not been successful, patients may want to speak to their doctor about surgical treatments such as prolapse surgery, bladder neck suspension, and sling procedures.
Are you ready to learn more?
Contact Dr. Craig Ranch of McKinney, TX today to learn more about this and other obstetric and gynecological services available in his state-of-the-art facility. The practice is located at 7900 Henneman Way, Ste. 100. Patients can reach the office by phone for an appointment at (214) 544-6600.
