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Do you find yourself rushing to the bathroom and still not always making it in time? Or perhaps you worry every cough, sneeze, or laugh will cause an embarrassing leak. If urinary incontinence is affecting your life and other treatments have not helped, it may be time to consider incontinence surgery.
At Habersham OBGYN in Demorest, Georgia, Dr. Thomas Hatchett and our highly skilled team offer a wide range of services for women throughout their lives. We provide personalized care and state-of-the-art technology, including minimally invasive procedures like incontinence surgery.
Many women experience the loss of bladder control ranging in seriousness from leaking urine every now and then to racing to the toilet. A number of different issues can cause this embarrassing problem, including physical problems, underlying medical conditions, and more.
There are a number of risk factors that can increase the chance of urinary incontinence, such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Age can also play a role with muscles weakening over time and the bladder not being able to hold as much urine. Being overweight can put extra pressure on the bladder and nearby muscles, which in turn, weakens them. Smoking can increase one's risk as can a family history. Diabetes and neurological diseases can also make one more likely to suffer from incontinence.
Treatment choices vary, depending on the incontinence's type and cause and typically begin with the least invasive options. Behavioral modifications and pelvic floor exercises are two possibilities. Medication, medical devices, and electrical stimulation can also be used. If these and other therapies do not provide sufficient relief, surgery is another option.
For some women, especially those with weak pelvic floor muscles, inherited issues, or advanced problems, it's possible that simpler treatments will not provide enough relief. The good news is, there are a number of minimally invasive surgical options.
The most common type of urinary incontinence surgery, this procedure involves putting a synthetic mesh sling or strap under the urethra to provide necessary support for the urethra and bladder neck, similar to a hammock.
Like the midurethral sling, the traditional sling also supports the urethra and neck of the bladder, but is made from the patient's own tissue.
These procedures involve several small incisions being made in the pelvic area followed by durable stitches to reinforce the urethra and bladder neck, which in turn reduces sagging and pressure.
If you're experiencing urinary incontinence, book online or call our office at 706-229-4718 today to make an appointment and find out what treatment option is best for you.
