Bladder and Pelvic Health
Taking a comprehensive approach to women’s health, the Women’s Services program at North Okaloosa Medical Center offers specialized services for women of all ages.
Urinary Incontinence: A Common Issue
According to experts, about 15 million adult women in the United States experience urinary incontinence, the involuntary loss of urine that often occurs as a result of a laugh, cough, sneeze or lift. Some women may also wake often at night to urinate or experience an uncontrollable urge to go to the bathroom.
Why It Happens
There isn’t a single reason or cause for this condition. Aging, certain medical conditions, infections, medications, obesity, pregnancy and childbirth all contribute to urinary incontinence.
Though it becomes more common as women age, this problem is not an inevitable part of life. While many women believe it’s a normal result of childbirth or a natural part of aging, most of the time, incontinence can be greatly improved, if not cured, with proper treatment.
Treating the Problem
Fortunately, both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are available and can provide meaningful improvement or elimination of symptoms. Evaluation and diagnosis of urinary incontinence involves a complete medical history review, a physical and questions about urinary habits. Testing can determine exactly what is causing the leakage and what treatment plan is right for you. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy or minimally invasive outpatient surgery.
Many women suffer in silence because they are uncomfortable talking about this issue. Don’t be embarrassed to discuss this common problem with our team of knowledgeable staff at North Okaloosa Medical Center’s Women’s Services program.
For more information, or to schedule an evaluation, call 850-689-8186.