Problems with Your Pelvic Floor? You’re Not Alone

The first time it happens can be quite a surprise. A simple sneeze and then a little urine drips out. While the root causes of urinary incontinence vary, the ailment is very common, affecting between 25% to 35% of women of all ages. More than 13 million Americans suffer from bladder issues and women are twice as likely to suffer from incontinence as men.

• What causes it? A weak pelvic floor is the number one cause of urinary incontinence. How does a woman end up with pelvic floor problems? Pregnancy, menopause, sports or obesity can all contribute to pelvic floor problems. During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles are flattened and therefore weakened. When the ovaries stop producing estrogen during menopause the tissues lining the urethra thin, which can cause a woman to lose bladder strength.
• What happens? Everyday activities such as coughing, sneezing, jumping or laughing place stress on the bladder. If the muscles fail to tighten in the pelvic region, urine can escape. Obviously, this is involuntary and embarrassing. This ailment can have an adverse impact on relationships and work. It can deter women from exercising or participating in sports.
• How to treat it. There are now minimally invasive urinary stress incontinence treatments A bladder sling involves a single incision and local anesthesia. The device can be inserted within 30 minutes and will help relieve pressure on the organ. Another option is a procedure that doesn’t involve any type of surgery. This FDA-approved procedure uses a fractional C02 laser.

Worrying about a sudden sneeze or holding back laughter is not the way to live. The good news is that no one must continue to suffer from this embarrassing and uncomfortable disorder. Find out the best treatment option for you today. Schedule your appointment with Dr. David Ghozland by calling (310) 393-9359.