What to expect at the doctor’s office

Your doctor will want to diagnose your incontinence correctly to make sure the right treatment option is chosen. You will have to provide a complete medical and surgical history, a list of all medication and supplements you take, and information about your urinary habits and all fluids consumed. It’s important to accurately describe the problems you are having, such as when and under what conditions leakage occurs.

It may be a good idea to track your urination habits in a journal to share with your doctor. A three-day voiding or urination diary should include information such as what you drink, the number of times you urinate, and if you have episodes of leakage. Take a look at the one below. Click for downloading pdf (260 Kb). 

Common tests used to diagnose incontinence:

• Urinalysis – testing of the urine sample
• Stress test – fluid is inserted into the bladder to check for leaking
• Post-void residual – measures the amount of urine left in your bladder after urinating
• Cystoscopy – use of a scope to examine your bladder
• Urodynamics – testing that measures:
  - Amount of urine in the bladder before urinating
  - Force of the urine as it leaves the body
  - Internal pressure of the bladder as it fills with urine
  - Control of the urethral sphincter muscles

Voiding diary (pdf 260 Kb)

What happens during the surgery?

A sling procedure is the most common minimally invasive surgical option to correct stress urinary incontinence. It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure in less than 30 minutes, however an overnight stay may be necessary.

There are many different types of slings available and a variety of ways to place a sling. A sling is chosen for treatment based on a number of factors, including the severity of incontinence, prior pelvic surgery and the patient and the doctor’s preferences.

Coloplast offers a variety of synthetic and biologic slings. The synthetic slings are made from polypropylene mesh that, when implanted, combines with new tissue growth to become a support structure for the urethra.

Regardless of type, all slings are placed in the vagina through a small incision under the urethra. There may be other small incisions within the groin creases or by the pubic hairline, depending on the type of sling placed. After the sling is properly positioned, it forms a cradle under your urethra, which provides support and helps to prevent urine from escaping during activities or straining.

Example of a sling

Example of Coloplast Aris® / Altis® sling. The amount of sling material used during surgery is depends on the individual woman’s body structure.

What happens after the surgery?

Your doctor will discuss recovery time and what you need to do after your operation with you. It’s important that you follow their instructions closely.

In general, expect to avoid exercise, physical activity or anything that puts strain on the area, as well as any sexual activity for a period of time. Your body needs time to heal properly from the surgery and allow the sling material to bind with your body’s natural tissue.

Should any problems occur after surgery, contact your doctor immediately. This is especially important if a high temperature occurs, or if the area becomes excessively painful, red or inflamed.

It’s important to know that future pregnancies may reverse the effects of the surgical procedure, resulting in further incontinence.

Your doctor will provide specific details about your recovery process, and he or she may have other recommendations based on your individual needs.