Surgery to Eliminate Urinary Incontinence in Women

02.02.2019 09:24:50

In Germany approximately every third woman at least sometimes suffers from uncontrolled urination. In older age, most women face this problem. But urinary incontinence is still a taboo topic, although there are a great number of ways to fight it, and there is no reason to put up with it. Two-thirds of women faced with such problems have regained control of their bladder only through the use of hormone ointments, regular gymnastics aimed at strengthening the muscles of the pelvic floor and other physical activity including movement. In some cases, however, only surgery helps.

I have heard about laser treatment. In this case, the tissues are to be “tightened”. This should be minimally invasive. Which of these is true?

Dr. Karen Wimmer: This method is still being developed, but it promises good results. However, it is still unclear how long it lasts, and the health insurance funds do not cover the expenses for the time being.

Are there any non-invasive possibilities for treating an atonic bladder other than gymnastics that strengthens the muscles of the pelvic floor? Or sparing methods without general anaesthesia?

Dr. Karen Wimmer: Yes, topical treatment via ointments (hormone ointments), electric stimulation therapy and insertion of a pessary are possible.

My mother-in-law suffers from urinary incontinence conditioned by progressive Parkinson’s disease. Is it worth treating it with injections?

Dr. Karen Wimmer: In this case, it is first of all necessary to find out whether Parkinson’s disease has led to overactive bladder, urinary disturbance which declares itself with an overfull bladder or muscle weakness. Only then can one answer this question.

Do tapes and injections affect pregnancy? Do I have to wait with the intervention until I give birth?

Dr. Karen Wimmer: My personal opinion, not only as a urogynaecologist, but also as an obstetrician, is that if there is a desire to give birth, I would refuse tapes. Injections are possible without problems and they do not lead to any restrictions.

I am a man. After radical prostatectomy, unfortunately, I have to put up with moderate, but interfering incontinence. Is the previous solution possible for me?

Dr. Karen Wimmer: I know that insertion of both tapes and an artificial urinary sphincter can be performed in men, as well as treatment with injections. However, the decision is made by a urologist.

I am 31 years old and for 15 years I have had problems with urinary incontinence. I have put it down to my being overweight so far and I have thought that nothing can be done about it. What would be better to use in my case? I have already pointed it out to my gynaecologist, but I have not received any response.

Dr. Karen Wimmer: In your case, you first need to undergo a really thorough examination. I can assume that only tape insertion will do for you.