Urine leakage, a form of urinary incontinence, is a common problem, particularly among women. Fortunately, there are several different types of treatments for urine leakage available. Generally speaking, treatments for urine leakage begin with pelvic exercises and bladder training techniques. Prescription medications may prove to be helpful treatments for urine leakage for many people. In some cases, more aggressive treatment options, such as surgical intervention, may become necessary.
Pelvic exercises, known specifically as Kegel exercises, are often among the first suggested treatments for urine leakage. These exercises are performed by contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles. Kegel exercises can be performed virtually anywhere without drawing attention. This treatment method helps to strengthen the pelvic muscles and can often reduce or eliminate urine leakage for many people.
Bladder training techniques may be useful treatments for urine leakage. This involves scheduling frequent trips to the restroom at regular intervals in the hopes that the bladder will become accustomed to the schedule, reducing the chances of urine leakage. In some cases, fluid intake may need to be reduced.
Treatments for urine leakage often include the use of prescription medications. Oral medications designed to treat overactive bladder conditions can reduce or eliminate urine leakage in some patients. Some antidepressant medications may also be used as treatments for urine leakage. Hormone therapy may help reduce incontinence issues, particularly among women.
Disposable devices known as urethral inserts are among the possible treatments for urine leakage among women who have predictable urine leakage during physical activity. These devices are inserted into the urethra in much the same way a tampon is inserted into the vagina. These devices are designed to be inserted just before physical activity and removed after the activity.
In some cases, conservative treatment methods do not provide adequate relief from urine leakage issues. In these situations, surgical intervention may become necessary. Surgery may be required to strengthen the bladder or the associated muscles and other tissues. These procedures often provide immediate symptom relief, although some patients may have to have the procedure repeated every few years.
In spite of various treatment methods, urine leakage may continue in some patients. Specially designed absorbent pads can be used as a form of protection, allowing the patient to continue to live a normal, active life. In the more severe cases, a thin tube known as a catheter may have to be inserted into the bladder several times per day to drain the urine from the body and prevent leakage.
