The involuntary loss of urine, or urinary incontinence, is a common yet often unspoken challenge faced by many women. It can range from a slight loss of urine to a complete inability to control your bladder — significantly impacting your quality of life.
Loss of bladder control can manifest itself in several ways, including:
- Stress Incontinence: This involves urine leakage when you exert pressure on your bladder by coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or lifting something heavy.
- Urge Incontinence: Also known as overactive bladder, this is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by an involuntary loss of urine. You may need to urinate frequently, including throughout the night.
- Overflow Incontinence: This occurs when you’re unable to empty your bladder completely, leading to frequent or constant dribbling of urine.
Dealing with incontinence can be very difficult and frustrating, especially if medications haven’t worked or lifestyle adjustments have not provided the relief you seek. Fortunately, there are other solutions available.
Advancements in medical technology have led to the development of innovative, FDA-approved devices for female urinary incontinence, that provide improved management options for bladder control. Here is what you need to know about the three technologies currently available for treating urinary incontinence.
InterStim
InterStim therapy is a treatment that targets the sacral nerves responsible for bladder control. The procedure involves a trial period with an external device, followed by permanent implantation if successful.
Placement involves a minor surgical procedure where a device is implanted just below the skin. The device sends mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, improving bladder-brain communication and reducing symptoms of bladder control problems.
The implantation process is minimally invasive and typically takes about 20–30 minutes. You can resume light activities within a few days and return to your regular routine in about three weeks. The device is discreet, not visible through the skin, and can be easily reversed if needed.
Urgent PC
Urgent PC offers a low-risk, non-surgical approach to bladder control. This system uses Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) to manage symptoms.
In the procedure, a small, slim needle electrode is placed close to your ankle and connected to a stimulator that sends electrical impulses to the nerves controlling the bladder. This technique is known as neuromodulation.
Each treatment session lasts about 30 minutes, with an initial series of 12 treatments typically scheduled a week apart. The treatment is usually well-tolerated, and adjustments can be made to suit your comfort levels.
Typically, improvements are noticed following five to seven sessions, and a complete series of 12 treatments is advised to fully evaluate the results.
Axonics
Like InterStim, Axonics involves the implantation of a device that sends mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves. It is a minimally invasive procedure and offers two options for a convenient, long-lasting treatment device:
The Axonics F15
- Recharge-free option
- Provides therapy for 10 to 12 years
- Allows you to safely undergo a full-body MRI
The AxonicsR20
- Provides therapy for 20 years or more
- Allows for 6 to 10 months between charging
- Allows you to safely undergo a full-body MRI
Make the Right Choice for Your Lifestyle
Deciding on the best treatment option depends on various factors, including your medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It’s important to have an in-depth discussion with your doctor to understand the nuances of each treatment and how they will best serve your needs. Factors to consider include:
- The invasiveness of the procedure
- Device maintenance requirements
- Your comfort level with the technology
With advanced treatments, women now have effective options to regain bladder control. To find out more about these devices for female urinary incontinence, call 843.347.2450 today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.