Is MonaLisa TouchⓇ Right for Me?
The MonaLisa Touch procedure is an effective way to restore lubrication and elasticity to your vaginal tissues. Here’s when to consider it.
5 Causes of Urinary Incontinence
Let’s start with the most important thing you should know about urinary incontinence — it's far from uncommon. In fact, one-quarter to one-third of adult men and women in the United States have urinary incontinence for various reasons.
As women’s health experts, Dr. Gary Willen and the rest of our team at Tahoe Women’s Care understand the many reasons why urinary incontinence develops in women, and we explore five of them here.
1. Pregnancy
Let’s start with one of the most common drivers of urinary incontinence — pregnancy. This type of urinary incontinence, which is called stress incontinence, develops with pregnancy, and thankfully it often remedies itself after you’ve given birth.
The reason behind this incontinence is that your growing baby places pressure on your bladder, which means every sneeze, cough, or even laugh can cause urine to escape from your bladder.
2. After childbirth
While many women regain control over their bladders after they’ve given birth, some are left with weakened bladder-support systems. This type of incontinence can linger for months, or even years, after you’ve given birth. We can typically remedy the problem through targeted exercises, as well as through vaginal rejuvenation with our cutting-edge MonaLisa Touch laser treatments.
3. Pelvic organ prolapse
Your pelvic organs are supported and held in place by your pelvic floor. If that floor weakens, which can happen with age or after pregnancy, your bladder may shift downward into your vagina, which can lead to incontinence.
If we diagnose you with bladder prolapse, you can take steps to strengthen your pelvic floor through targeted exercises, as well as with a pessary, which is an insert that holds your bladder in place.
4. Infections
If you’ve ever had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you know that incontinence can be one of the side effects. The infection causes spasms in your bladder and urethra that interfere with your ability to “hold” your urine.
The good news is that we can quickly clear up the UTI with a course of antibiotics.
5. Nerve damage
If the nerves around your urinary tract are damaged, it can lead to urinary incontinence. This can develop if you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease. As well, if you sustain nerve damage because of a surgery or infection, this may also interfere with your ability to hold urine.
Outside of these five problems, please note that there are some medications or substances that can lead to temporary urinary incontinence. As examples, diuretics that treat heart or liver problems or substances like caffeine can lead to an overactive bladder.
If you’re struggling with urinary incontinence, the most important step is to come see us so that we can evaluate the problem and get you on the road to better bladder health.
To get started, contact our office in Carson City, Nevada, to set up an appointment.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Do I Need STD Testing If I’m in a Long-Term Relationship?
Regular STD testing is important for your sexual health, but is it really necessary if you’re in a committed partnership? Here’s what you need to know.
Pelvic Pain After Sex: Is It Normal?
Pelvic pain after sex could indicate one of many possible issues. Here’s when you should seek treatment.
Why Are My Menstrual Cramps Getting Worse With Age?
Until recently, your periods weren’t exactly the end of the world in terms of menstrual cramping, and you got on with life. These days, your cramps are more painful than ever — and you want answers.
Tips for Starting the Fertility Awareness Method of Birth Control
Your reasons are your own, but you don’t want to rely on medications or devices to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. Instead, you want to learn about fertility awareness. You’ve come to the right place!
5 Tools to Help You Successfully Navigate Menopause
It would be no exaggeration to say that the changes that come with menopause are life-altering. The good news is that we have more tools than ever to help you better navigate life after menopause.