Over the course of their lives, many women will experience urinary problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or urinary incontinence (UI). Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness can diagnose and treat urinary problems in women to help safely reduce pain and discomfort. Symptoms of these problems include:
- Urgency: a strong urge to urinate whether or not the bladder is full
- Frequency: voiding more often than usual
- Nocturia: having to void during hours of sleep
- Dysuria: experiencing pain when voiding
- Urinary Incontinence: leaking of urine before you can get to the bathroom
- Enuresis: bed wetting or leaking urine while sleeping
Urinary Tract Infection
UTIs are common infections of the urinary tract, generally found in the bladder and occasionally the kidneys. Women with a UTI may experience frequent or painful urination, and sometimes cannot control their bladder. More serious infections can cause back pain and fevers. There are many other problems that can cause similar symptoms including kidney stones, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), vaginal infections, and overactive bladder. It is important to be seen by your doctor so that tests can be done on your urine to make sure you get the right treatment. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics and symptoms will typically improve within a few days.
Urinary Incontinence
UI refers to the inability to prevent urinary leakage until you can get to a bathroom. This is a common condition, affecting more than 13 million Americans. It is twice as common in women than men, and the likelihood of developing UI can be influenced by stresses placed on the body during pregnancy and childbirth, anatomic changes due to age, or certain medical conditions.
The two main causes of chronic UI include stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge incontinence, which is often caused by a condition called overactive bladder (OAB). Many women experience both. SUI typically causes leakage of small amounts of urine with activities like coughing, laughing or jumping. Symptoms of OAB may include urinary frequency, urgency and nocturia. A thorough examination, along with a complete medical history, will help reveal the cause of your urinary tract problems so an effective treatment plan can be developed.
There are many options available to treat urinary incontinence, including medications, in office procedures, pelvic physical therapy and occasionally surgery. Treatments are often more effective when used in combination. Be sure and talk to your doctor so that a treatment plan can be developed.
Speak To Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness To Learn More
If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI or UI, reach out to Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness. Our team has several years of experience working with women to treat urinary problems and resolve symptoms. To learn more about urinary problems, or to book an appointment, please give us a call at 919.636.6670 or schedule an appointment online today.