Incontinence is a common, yet often misunderstood, condition that many women experience, and it can have a meaningful impact on daily comfort and emotional well-being. Involuntary urine leakage can happen for a variety of reasons, including childbirth, aging, or underlying health conditions. Gaining a clearer understanding of what incontinence is, the surgical options that may help, and how these treatments can support women’s health can empower you to make choices that feel right for your body and your life.
What is Incontinence?
Incontinence refers to the inability to control urination, leading to involuntary leakage of urine. It can manifest in different forms, with stress incontinence and urge incontinence being the most prevalent. Stress incontinence occurs when physical activities such as laughing, coughing, or exercising put pressure on the bladder, causing leaks. Urge incontinence involves a sudden and intense urge to urinate, often resulting in leakage before reaching the bathroom.
Several factors contribute to the development of incontinence. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken pelvic floor muscles, while hormonal changes during menopause may also play a role. Additionally, certain medical conditions like obesity or neurological disorders can exacerbate urinary control issues.
Why Consider Surgery for Incontinence?
For many women, lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments may not provide sufficient relief from incontinence symptoms. In such cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery aims to address the underlying causes of incontinence by providing structural support to the bladder and urethra.
Dr. Darren Lazare offers various surgical options tailored to individual needs. These procedures can significantly improve urinary control and enhance overall quality of life.
How Does Incontinence Surgery Work?
The specific surgical procedure recommended will depend on the type and severity of incontinence experienced by the patient. Common surgical options include:
- Mid-Urethral Sling Procedure: This minimally invasive surgery involves placing a mesh sling under the mid-urethra to provide support during physical activities. The sling helps prevent leakage by compressing the urethra when pressure is applied.
- Burch Colposuspension: This procedure involves suturing the vaginal tissue near the urethra to lift it into a better position, providing additional support to prevent leaks.
- Urethral Bulking Agents: This technique involves injecting a bulking agent into the tissue around the urethra to help close it more effectively during times of increased abdominal pressure.
These surgeries are typically performed under general or regional anesthesia and may require a short recovery period. Patients can usually return home the same day after surgery.
Who is a Candidate for Incontinence Surgery?
Ideal candidates for incontinence surgery are women who continue to experience bothersome urinary leakage even after trying gentle, conservative treatments such as pelvic floor exercises or medications. Women living with stress incontinence or urge incontinence, especially when symptoms begin to affect daily comfort, confidence, or activities, may find that surgical options offer meaningful relief.
During a consultation with Dr. Lazare, you’ll receive a thoughtful and thorough evaluation, including a conversation about your medical history, lifestyle, and the symptoms you’re experiencing, to ensure that any treatment recommended is truly aligned with your needs and well-being.
This assessment ensures that surgery aligns with their health goals and expectations.
Benefits of Incontinence Surgery
The benefits of undergoing surgery for incontinence extend beyond physical improvements; they play a significant role in boosting confidence and enhancing overall quality of life. Key advantages include:
- Improved Quality of Life: Many women experience significant improvements in their ability to engage in daily activities without fear of leakage.
- Enhanced Social Confidence: With improved urinary control, women often feel more comfortable participating in social activities without worrying about accidents.
- Long-lasting Results: Surgical interventions typically offer long-term relief from urinary incontinence symptoms, allowing women to enjoy life without constant concern about leaks.
- Minimal Recovery Time: Many surgical options are minimally invasive, leading to quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgeries.
- Restored Comfort: By addressing the underlying causes of incontinence, women often report feeling more at ease during physical activities and intimate moments.
Get Started
If you are struggling with incontinence and seeking effective solutions for women’s health in Surrey, BC, schedule a consultation with Dr. Darren Lazare today. You can reach out by calling or filling out the form on our contact page. We see clients from Vancouver, Surrey, Columbus, Burnaby, Richmond, and Coquitlam who are eager to enhance their quality of life through effective treatment options.
Take control of your health—because every woman deserves to feel empowered and confident! For more information about our services or other treatments available at our clinic, visit Dr. Lazare’s website.
Dr. Darren Lazare
Restorative Gynecology Surgeon | BLOG
Dr. Darren Lazare received his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of British Columbia. He successfully completed his subspecialty fellowship training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at the University of Alberta. Dr. Lazare has been appointed as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia where he is the residency supervisor for the urogynecology program. He is a Surgeon Champion for the American College of Surgeon’s National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). He is a committed advocate for women’s health, medical education and quality improvement initiatives while maintaining a full clinical, reconstructive and cosmetic practice. Dr. Lazare’s professional memberships include the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Canadian Society of Pelvic Medicine, the International Urogynecology Association, the International Continence Society and the American Urogynecology Society.