Incontinence

Pressure on the pelvic organs or general ageing can cause weakening of the pelvic muscles and functioning of these pelvic organs to fail. Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. It can range from occasional leaking to a powerful urge to urinate that may not let you get to the toilet in time. It is clear that urinary incontinence can be an embarrassing condition for women of all ages.

What are the symptoms of urinary incontinence?

From little leaking, frequent urination to sudden and intense urges to urinate; incontinence can be a burden on a woman's quality of life and self-esteem.

How can it be diagnosed?

A range of urinary tests can be done such as stress or urge urinary incontinence test, but overall most women are aware they have this problem.

What are the treatment options?

Pelvic incontinence may be due to a weakness of the pelvic muscles and treatment is aimed at precisely this issue. For an overactive bladder there are many treatment options available and doctor Lerm can advise you on these. Behavioural therapy such as Kegel exercises can be used to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Due to the weakened pelvic muscles, pelvic organs may also prolapse into the vagina and cause incontinence. In such cases, doctor Lerm may advise surgery to repair the drooping or fallen organs and thus treat the incontinence, or insert a pessary device to aid support of the pelvic organs that may have prolapsed.  A sling procedure or insertion of a mesh tape can support the urethra to prevent urinary leakage on coughing.