Urinary incontinence is a common issue that affects many women, often leading to discomfort and embarrassment. If you experience unexpected bladder leaks, you are not alone. Research shows that around 26% of women in South Australia face some form of urinary incontinence. Unfortunately, many women believe there is no solution and suffer in silence.
Jennifer Carly Aesthetic Medicine in Gawler, South Australia, is here to change that perception. In this blog, we’ll explore the most effective treatments available for urinary incontinence.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence means you leak pee because you no longer have full control of your bladder. This can happen when you laugh, sneeze, run, or even when you’re doing nothing at all.
Your urinary system includes various organs that filter, store, and remove waste as urine. When these organs function properly, you can usually reach the bathroom. However, urinary incontinence occurs when these parts do not work as they should.
Many people mistakenly believe that incontinence is a normal part of aging and that nothing can be done about it. While it is true that the risk of incontinence increases with age, it can affect anyone, regardless of age. In South Australia, approximately 7% to 37% of women aged 20-39 experience some form of urinary incontinence. In men, about 4.4% are affected by this condition.
Causes of Urinary Incontinence?
Understanding the causes of urinary incontinence is essential for finding effective treatments. Here are five common causes of urinary incontinence:
1. Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a significant factor in developing urinary incontinence, particularly stress incontinence. As the baby grows, it puts pressure on the bladder. This pressure can lead to leaks during activities like sneezing, coughing, or laughing. Fortunately, this type of incontinence often resolves after childbirth.
2. After Childbirth
After giving birth, some women may experience lingering incontinence. This can occur due to weakened bladder-support systems. While many regain control, some may struggle for months or even years. Targeted exercises and treatments like VTone can help improve bladder control.
3. Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the pelvic floor weakens, causing the bladder to shift downward. This condition can lead to urinary incontinence. Strengthening the pelvic floor through exercises or using a pessary can offer support and relief.
4. Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause incontinence as a side effect. Infections lead to bladder spasms, making it difficult to hold urine. Fortunately, UTIs can be treated quickly with antibiotics.
5. Nerve Damage
Damage to the nerves around the urinary tract can also result in incontinence. This may occur due to chronic conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, nerve damage from surgery or infections can interfere with bladder control.
Best Treatments for Urinary Incontinence
Treating urinary incontinence can greatly improve your quality of life. At our clinic, we offer personalised treatments to help you regain control and confidence. Here are some of the best treatments for urinary incontinence:
1. VTone Therapy
VTone therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that uses electrical stimulation to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. This therapy is particularly effective for stress incontinence, which is common during and after pregnancy. By enhancing muscle tone, VTone can significantly reduce leaks and improve bladder control. During VTone therapy, a small probe is inserted into the vagina, delivering gentle electrical pulses to the pelvic floor muscles.
2. Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises, often referred to as Kegel exercises, are a foundational treatment for urinary incontinence. These exercises help strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. By regularly practicing pelvic floor exercises, you can improve muscle tone, reduce leaks, and prevent urinary incontinence. Our experienced therapists can guide you through proper techniques and provide personalised exercise programs.
3. Medications
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage urinary incontinence. Anticholinergics can calm an overactive bladder, reducing the urge to urinate frequently. Other medications may help improve bladder control by relaxing the bladder muscles or tightening the sphincter muscles. Our healthcare providers will work with you to determine the best medication for your situation.
4. Surgical Options
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered. Procedures such as sling surgery or bladder neck suspension provide long-term solutions for stress incontinence. These surgeries help to support the bladder and urethra, reducing leaks.
Why VTone is the Best Treatment for Urinary Incontinence
Of all the treatments available, VTone has emerged as the best option for many patients. One of the key benefits of VTone is that it is completely non-invasive and painless. Unlike surgery, there are no incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time required. The treatment is also fast and convenient, with most sessions lasting about 30 minutes.
Another advantage of VTone is that it is highly effective. Clinical studies have shown that VTone can significantly improve symptoms of urinary incontinence, including frequency, urgency, and leakage. Patients who use VTone often report improved quality of life and increased confidence in their ability to control their bladder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy can cause incontinence due to increased pressure on the bladder and weakened pelvic floor muscles. As the baby grows, it pushes against your bladder, making it harder to hold urine. Hormonal changes and muscle stretching during and after pregnancy also reduce bladder control.
Incontinence can affect anyone, but it is more common in certain groups of people, including females who have gone through pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause.
Yes, incontinence is more common in women, especially those who have been pregnant or gone through childbirth.
Best Treatment for Urinary Incontinence in South Australia
At Jennifer Carly Aesthetic Medicine, we are dedicated to providing the best treatments for urinary incontinence in South Australia. Our team of experienced nurses will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. Book your personalised urinary incontinence consultation today and discover why women across South Australia trust VTone and our expert care.
