Incontinence Specialist

What causes incontinence?

Incontinence can be caused by many reasons. One of the most common forms is urinary incontinence. This involves the inability to hold urine in the bladder due to loss of control or weakened muscles.

How do urethral slings help incontinence?

Urethral slings are used as a minimally invasive option to treat incontinence issues. Urinary incontinence slings, known as urethral support slings by specialists, are soft and flexible surgical mesh systems that cradle the urethra like a hammock, providing additional support and helping to restore it to its normal anatomical position. Urethral support slings are proving to be an effective surgical procedure for stress urinary incontinence. Benefits of urethral slings include:

• They’re effective for most women
  
• Many women regain complete bladder control within hours of their procedure
• In most cases, women can return to normal, non-strenuous activities shortly after the procedure
• Depending on the specific type of procedure, they may be performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia on an out-patient basis
• Incisions are small, reducing pain and recovery time
• The procedures can be performed in women who have scarring from previous pelvic surgeries

What is the procedure like?

While each sling procedure varies slightly, placing the mesh generally involves a small incision made in the vagina, the abdomen, or where the top of where your thigh meets your pelvic area. The mesh is threaded through the incision and positioned under the urethra to form a cradle of support. The mesh allows your body tissues to grow into it, providing support to your urethra and securing the mesh in place.

Following your sling procedure, your doctor may also advise the following:

• While your incisions will be small and should heal quickly, your doctor may prescribe pain medication for you if it’s needed. In addition, your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics.
  
• In some cases, a physician may insert a catheter to drain urine from your bladder temporarily. The catheter is usually removed before you leave the hospital or clinic. However, if you are unable to empty your bladder on your own, the catheter may remain in place for a short time until you’re able to do so.

• While you should avoid sexual intercourse, heavy lifting, and exercise for approximately four to six weeks following your procedure, you can usually return to your non-strenuous daily activities in a short time. Your doctor will share more information about how you should care for yourself after your procedure. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

While some surgical mesh products are more flexible and porous than others, they all serve the same purpose—to restore the urethra to its correct anatomical position. However, some surgical mesh products are more effective than others. Be sure to ask your doctor about the product she/he recommends.