Urinary Incontinence Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary passage of urine. This means that a person loses urine without wanting to do so-they dribble or they fully empty their bladder. Depending on the cause and how severe it is, some people experience the loss of urine only at isolated times, for instance, when they develop pressure in their belly on coughing, laughing, or exercising, while for others, it happens frequently.
Even though it may happen to anyone at any age, women are particularly prone to contracting this disorder, especially after having been pregnant or having given birth, or after menopause. Men and children may have incontinence due to a wide variety of medical or life factors. One should realise that urinary incontinence is not a disease.
What are the Different Types of Urinary Incontinence?
Understanding the types of urinary incontinence is important for identifying the right treatment
approach. Each type is caused by different factors and affects people in different ways:
Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence is characterised by a sudden and intense feeling that prompts urination, instant dilated by involuntary loss of urine. It might occur, even while the bladder is not perceived as full. Individuals suffering from urge incontinence experience urges more frequently, disturbing their sleep into the waking moments with several nightly trips to the bathroom (nocturia).
Apart from causing an overactive bladder, it may establish a urinary tract infection (UTI), cause inflammation of the bladder, or initiate a neurological disease such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke. The acute and ominous onset obstructs the scheduling of daily activities, thereby promoting emotional distress while limiting lifestyle.
Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence is a form of urinary incontinence wherein increased abdominal pressure due to physical movements causes leakage of urine. One could sneeze, cough, laugh, jump, or lift something heavy to bring on stress incontinence. It occurs when the pelvic muscles or the urethral sphincter weaken or collapse.
It is common in women, especially after they have had pregnancies, children, or have reached menopause, but it can also develop in males after they have had prostate surgery. Stress incontinence tends to start mild and then worsen over time if not managed.
Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence is due to the bladder not being emptied correctly, and therefore, there is dribbling of urine frequently or continuously. The individual doesn't feel a need to go or has just gone and leaks within a few minutes. Overflow incontinence is most commonly linked with nerve damage, diabetes, chronic constipation, or obstruction of the bladder outlet.
In men, it is produced by a large prostate gland that stops urine from passing. Overflow incontinence is also produced by drug or spinal cord injury that disrupts communication from the bladder.
Mixed Incontinence
As the name suggests, mixed incontinence presents as a combination of the symptoms of urge and stress incontinence. A person will leak urine with coughing or lifting, and with the sudden, uncontrollable need to urinate.
Mixed incontinence is more common in women, and it has to be treated with a combination of treatments for both conditions. Both components have to be diagnosed to make an effective treatment plan.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence?
The signs and symptoms of urinary incontinence may include:
Involuntary leakage of urine
Sudden urge to urinate
Frequent urination, especially at night
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Dribbling after urination
What Causes Urinary Incontinence?
Several reasons for urinary incontinence include:
How is Urinary Incontinence Diagnosed?
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a condition characterised by the involuntary loss of urine, and diagnosing it usually involves a combination of assessments to understand its cause, type, and severity.
Urinary incontinence diagnosis helps in distinguishing between the types of urinary incontinence (stress, urge, overflow, functional, etc.), which is crucial for selecting the appropriate treatment plan:
Detailed Medical History
The doctor asks about the onset, frequency, and circumstances under which incontinence occurs (e.g., during coughing, sneezing, or exercise). This helps differentiate between the types of UI, such as stress incontinence (leakage during physical activity or pressure) or urge incontinence (a strong, sudden need to urinate).
It is important to address medical conditions like diabetes, neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, stroke), or pelvic surgeries (e.g., hysterectomy) that may contribute to incontinence. Certain medications, especially diuretics or those affecting bladder function, may cause or worsen incontinence.
Physical Examination
Pelvic Exam: In women, a pelvic exam helps identify any anatomical issues, such as pelvic organ prolapse, or abnormal findings in the pelvic region.
Neurological Exam: To assess the nerves controlling the bladder, your doctor may check for signs of nerve damage.
Cough Test: The doctor may ask the patient to cough or strain while observing for involuntary urine leakage, which helps identify stress incontinence.
Urinalysis
Urine Test: A simple urine sample helps check for signs of infection, blood, or abnormal substances in the urine (such as glucose, which might indicate diabetes).
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Urinary Tract Infection can cause urinary urgency and frequency, which might be mistaken for incontinence.
Bladder Diary
The patient is asked to keep track of fluid intake, urinary frequency, and the timing and amount of incontinence episodes over a few days to a week. This provides a clearer picture of the pattern and volume of incontinence.
This helps distinguish between types of UI (e.g., urge vs. stress incontinence) and offers insight into triggers or patterns.
Post-Void Residual Measurement (PVR)
Bladder Emptying: After urination, the amount of urine left in the bladder is measured using an ultrasound or catheterisation. A high PVR suggests incomplete bladder emptying, which could point to issues like bladder outlet obstruction or weak bladder muscles (seen in conditions like neurogenic bladder). This test helps diagnose overflow incontinence or urinary retention.
Imaging Tests (like Ultrasound)
Ultrasound: This test is often used to examine the bladder and kidneys for abnormalities such as stones, tumours, or bladder wall thickening. It may also be used to assess residual urine after voiding.
X-Rays or CT Scans: It is a less common test for urinary incontinence, but in some cases, imaging studies may be done if there's a suspicion of anatomical abnormalities, like bladder or urethral prolapse.
MRI: In certain cases, an MRI may be used to evaluate pelvic floor muscles and any underlying structural issues.
Urodynamic Testing
Bladder Function: A set of tests that assess how the bladder and urethra are functioning. This is often used when the cause of incontinence is unclear or when treatment options are being considered.
Cystometry: This test measures how much the bladder can hold and the pressure inside the bladder during filling and voiding.
Urethral Pressure Profile: This test evaluates the pressure at various points of the urethra to assess for any weaknesses that could cause leakage.
Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity in the muscles around the bladder and urethra, which can help identify nerve or muscle issues.
What are the Treatment Options for Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence treatment focuses on managing the involuntary loss of urine to improve a person’s comfort, confidence, and daily functioning. Since the condition can vary in severity and underlying cause, effective treatment often requires a personalised approach. Early diagnosis and a proactive urinary incontinence treatment plan can lead to meaningful symptom relief and a better quality of life. Here are some treatment options for urinary incontinence:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Simple changes like reducing fluid, caffeine, and alcohol intake can help manage symptoms. Weight loss eases pressure on the bladder, and quitting smoking reduces coughing that can worsen leakage.
Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and urethra, especially helpful for stress incontinence. They’re most effective when done consistently, often with guidance from a therapist.
This involves timed voiding and gradually increasing the time between urination. It helps the bladder hold more urine and reduces urgency, especially useful for urge incontinence.
Drugs like anticholinergics and beta-3 agonists relax the bladder to reduce urgency. Topical estrogen may help postmenopausal women. Side effects can include dry mouth and constipation.
Pessaries support the bladder in cases of prolapse, while urethral inserts block urine during activities. These are good non-surgical options, especially for women with stress incontinence.
Pads, briefs, and protective underwear manage leaks and maintain comfort. They're helpful for those not pursuing active treatment or awaiting other interventions.
Injected around the urethra to improve closure and reduce leakage, mostly used for stress incontinence. Effects are temporary and may require repeat treatments.
Injected into the bladder to calm overactive muscles, used when medications fail. Results last for several months but may cause temporary urinary retention.
Surgical Options
Minimally invasive treatments for urinary incontinence offer effective symptom relief with less recovery time and fewer complications compared to traditional surgical options. These approaches are often considered when conservative methods have not provided sufficient improvement. They are designed to restore bladder control, reduce leakage episodes, and improve overall quality of life.
A sling supports the urethra and prevents leaks during physical activity. It’s a common and effective surgery for stress incontinence in women.
This lifts and secures the bladder neck to prevent leakage, especially for stress incontinence. It can be done through open or laparoscopic surgery.
Mostly used in men, this implanted device controls urine flow and is effective for severe stress incontinence, especially after prostate surgery.
A small device stimulates nerves near the spine to regulate bladder control. It’s used for incontinence or retention when other treatments don’t work.
A rare surgery to enlarge the bladder using bowel tissue. It’s reserved for severe or complex bladder dysfunction.
How to Prevent Urinary Incontinence?
While urinary incontinence might not always be something we can completely avoid, especially when it’s tied to age, childbirth, or specific medical issues, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk or manage the symptoms more effectively:
Keep a Healthy Weight
Carrying extra weight can put unnecessary pressure on your bladder and the muscles around it, which can weaken them over time and increase the chances of stress incontinence. By maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, you can significantly ease that pressure and promote better bladder control.
Do Pelvic Floor Exercises Regularly
Often referred to as Kegel exercises, these are fantastic for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles that support your bladder and urethra. Making a habit of these exercises can enhance muscle tone and help prevent leaks, particularly for women after childbirth or during menopause.
Steer Clear of Bladder Irritants
Some foods and drinks can irritate the bladder lining and make symptoms of urge or stress incontinence worse. Common culprits include caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks, spicy foods, and citrus fruits. Cutting back or avoiding these can help improve your bladder health and lessen those sudden urges.
Kick the Smoking Habit
Smoking can lead to chronic coughing, which increases pressure in your abdomen and can weaken your pelvic floor muscles over time. Plus, nicotine can irritate the bladder directly. Quitting smoking not only boosts your overall health but also lowers the risk of developing or worsening urinary incontinence.
Manage Ongoing Health Issues
Conditions like diabetes, constipation, and neurological disorders can impact how your bladder functions. Keeping these conditions in check through medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular check-ups can be key to managing your urinary health in the long run. By taking these proactive measures, you can support your bladder health and lower the chances of experiencing urinary incontinence, especially if you’re already at risk due to factors like pregnancy, aging, or family history.
Choose Artemis Hospitals for Effective Urinary Incontinence Treatment in Gurgaon:
Artemis Hospitals have experienced gynaecologists who provide personalised care to each patient with urinary incontinence to reduce the risk of further complications, including infertility. Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, has some of the best gynaecologists in India for urinary incontinence treatment and management with excellent records.
To book an appointment with some of the best gynaecologists in Gurgaon at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 959-928-5476. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or by downloading the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia
Unit Head - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Artemis Hopitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is urinary incontinence?
It’s the unintentional leakage of urine due to weak bladder control.
Why does pregnancy cause incontinence?
Pregnancy weakens the pelvic floor muscles and increases pressure on the bladder.
Who does incontinence affect?
It can affect men, women, and even children, though it is more common in older adults and women.
Am I at a higher risk of incontinence at an older age?
Yes. Urinary incontinence in the elderly is common due to muscle weakness, neurological conditions, and prostate or hormonal changes.
Is incontinence more common in women?
Yes. Urinary incontinence in women is often due to childbirth, menopause, and anatomy.
Who is the best gynaecologist near me for urinary incontinence treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best gynaecologists in Gurgaon with an average experience of more than 15 years. Contact us to book an appointment with some of the best gynaecologists in Gurgaon.
