Incontinence Specialist

What is urinary incontinence?

Incontinence is defined by a lack of voluntary control over urination. Particularly prevalent among women, this lack of bladder control ranges in severity and can negatively affect your daily life. Simple lifestyle changes or exercises are sometimes enough to combat urinary incontinence, but often medical treatment is needed. For older women, urinary incontinence is often due to the natural deterioration of tissues in the bladder and urethra, vagina, and pelvic floor.

What causes urinary incontinence?

Urinary continence is categorized as either temporary or persistent.

Temporary urinary incontinence is often induced by certain drinks, food, or medications that can act as diuretics that stimulate your bladder and increase your volume of urine. Temporary incontinence can also be caused by a urinary tract infection or constipation, both easily treatable.

Causes of persistent urinary incontinence may include:

• Pregnancy
• Childbirth
• Changes with age
• Menopause
• Hysterectomy
• Obstruction
• Neurological disorders

As you get older, your bladder weakens, which can cause urinary incontinence and increase frequency of urination. These symptoms often accompany menopause; when your estrogen levels drop, the tissues in your bladder and urethra deteriorate. For older women, incontinence can often mean both stress incontinence—leakage that occurs when you suddenly cough, sneeze, or laugh—or urge incontinence, when the need to urinate comes on so quickly that you can’t make it to the restroom.

What medical treatments exist for urinary incontinence?

Treatments for urinary incontinence can include:

• Lifestyle changes
• Exercises
• Medications
• Devices
• Therapies

Oftentimes, you’ll be prescribed medications to stop the spasming in your bladder. However, a visit to Dr. Cha’s office can help you understand the cause of your urinary incontinence or urgency and what treatment will work best for you.

One of the most effective and safe treatments for persistent urinary incontinence is a relatively new, non-surgical laser treatment called MonaLisa Touch®. Approved by the FDA for gynecological use in 2014, this treatment rejuvenates your vaginal tissue and can alleviate urinary issues, as well as many other symptoms of menopause.

Make an appointment today to see if MonaLisa Touch is a good solution for you.