Stress Incontinence: Treatment Options

According to statistics, stress incontinence is the most common form of incontinence. It happens when a sudden pressure on the bladder leads to unplanned urine leaks. Simple activities like laughing, coughing, sneezing, jogging, jumping or lifting weights put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. In people who suffer from stress incontinence, this pressure is enough to relax the pelvic floor muscles, contract the bladder and release urine – involuntarily.  

About 2 in 100 adults experience stress urinary incontinence, which makes it important to understand what possible treatment options are available. Treatment options for stress urinary incontinence include a number of choices, both surgical and non-surgical. Ultimately, the treatment option that a patient follows will depend on a number of factors like the severity of the condition, the age and general health condition of the patient and the results of the doctor’s examination.  

Natural treatment options for stress incontinence are most effective in cases where incontinence is mild. Kegel exercises are the best way to prevent stress urinary incontinence because these exercises work directly on the weakened muscles that cause the problem. However, it is important to do the exercises regularly over a period of 3-6 months to experience significant improvements. Biofeedback is used in tandem with Kegel exercises to ensure that the right muscles are being targeted and strengthened.  

Devices such as vaginal cones also help strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles.  

Homeopathic treatment is another natural treatment that can help patients suffering from incontinence. The treatment is based on the use of natural plant and mineral extracts. When combined with proper diet and exercise, this treatment is quite effective in arresting the progress of  incontinence. 

Medication can help stress incontinence to some degree. Most medicines are bladder relaxors or bladder neck contractors.  

Surgery is often the last line of defense against stress incontinence. It is recommended in older women. In this regard, it must be remembered that some women who suffered from stress incontinence previously, but have overcome it, will experience symptoms as they age. In such cases, surgical intervention may be the only solution.