Condition
Urinary Incontinence
Loss of bladder control affects men and women of all ages. We offer behavioral, medical, and surgical options tailored to the cause.
Common symptoms
- Leaking with cough, sneeze, or laugh
- Strong sudden urges to urinate
- Frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom
Urinary incontinence — leaking urine when you do not mean to — affects men and women at every stage of life. It is far more common than people realize, and it is highly treatable. There is no reason to live with it.
Types of incontinence
- Stress incontinence — leaking with cough, sneeze, lifting, or exercise
- Urge incontinence — sudden strong urges with little warning
- Mixed incontinence — features of both
- Overflow incontinence — incomplete bladder emptying that leads to leaking
- Functional incontinence — physical or cognitive barriers to reaching the toilet
How we evaluate
A focused history and exam usually identifies the type. We may use a bladder diary, urinalysis, post-void residual measurement, and in some cases urodynamics to confirm the cause and choose the right treatment.
Treatment options
We start with the least invasive options that are likely to work for your type of incontinence. These include behavioral changes, pelvic floor therapy, and bladder training. From there, options progress to medications, in-office procedures (Botox, InterStim), and minimally invasive surgery (slings, suspension procedures) when appropriate.