Urinary Incontinence Specialist

What is urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence affects your ability to control your bladder. You may feel a sudden, urgent need to go to the toilet. Sometimes, you may even urinate without warning. Some women also lose a small amount of urine when they cough, sneeze, or laugh.

Incontinence can be embarrassing. Many women are reluctant to tell their OB/GYN about their bladder problems. But incontinence is a common concern, especially among women who have had children. Treatment can reduce your symptoms and help you regain your self-confidence.

What causes incontinence?

If you're having trouble holding in your urine, you may have a problem with your pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the organs in your pelvis, like your bladder and uterus. They also help control bladder and bowel movements. 

In women, pelvic floor problems are often linked to pregnancy and childbirth. Carrying a baby puts a lot of strain on your pelvic floor muscles. Many women experience incontinence during their first pregnancy. Some continue to experience symptoms for years after giving birth. 

Women who are overweight can also have trouble with incontinence. Accidents or injuries that damage the pelvic floor muscles may also trigger incontinence. 

Pelvic floor muscles can also weaken as you get older. That's why many women struggle with new or worsening incontinence as they age.

More rarely, incontinence can occur due to a neurological disorder. If your incontinence is linked to a neurological problem, you may need specialized care. Dr. McDyer and Dr. Suhrer at Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville can refer you to a specialist if necessary.

How is urinary incontinence treated?

There are many possible treatments for urinary incontinence available at Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville.

If a bladder infection is the cause of your incontinence, your symptoms usually disappear after a course of antibiotics. But if your incontinence is due to weak pelvic floor muscles, you may need treatment to strengthen your muscles.

Behavioral techniques, like scheduling toilet trips, can help prevent accidents. Meanwhile, pelvic floor muscle exercises teach you how to strengthen your muscles. 

Stronger muscles can do a better job of holding in urine. Prescription medications can also help calm an irritated or overactive bladder. 

In rare cases, you may need surgery to resolve your symptoms. If surgery is necessary, Dr. McDyer and Dr. Suhrer can let you know what to expect during your procedure. They also provide the follow-up care you need to make a full recovery. 

Are you living with urinary incontinence? Let Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville help. Call the office today or schedule a consultation online.