Dr. Robyn Roberts provides treatment for incontinence in men and women
If you experience incontinence, you are not alone. More than 25 million adults in America experience this problem. Many of these people mistakenly believe that incontinence in men and women is just something to live with. Dr. Robyn Roberts wants to debunk this myth by highlighting the different options for diagnosing and treating this common and frustrating problem.
Starting with the basics of incontinence in men and women
Before diving into the treatment options, it’s important to learn more about incontinence. This term refers to the accidental loss of urine. People of any age and gender can experience this issue. However, it’s most common in women over the age of 50, due to the effects of childbirth and hormonal changes during and after menopause.
Aside from hormonal changes and childbirth, certain medical conditions, medication and illnesses can also cause issues with bladder control.
When it comes to incontinence in men and women, there are four types.
- Urgency, or the inability to hold urine long enough to reach a bathroom or feeling a strong, sudden urge to urinate
- Stress, or the leaking of urine during exercise, sneezing, coughing, laughing or lifting
- Functional, or the leaking of urine when someone is unable to reach a restroom in time due to physical or mobility issues
- Overflow, or urine leakage when the bladder cannot hold the amount of urine produced
Dr. Roberts can diagnose and treat each of these causes of incontinence.
Diagnosing and treating incontinence
To make a diagnosis of incontinence in men and women, Dr. Roberts typically performs a physical exam and requests urine samples. This Austin urologist also asks about the patient’s medical history and symptoms to determine the type of incontinence.
After making a diagnosis, Dr. Roberts works with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan based on their needs and goals. Several treatment options are available.
- Behavioral therapies, including bladder training and scheduled toileting
- Diet modifications to avoid caffeine, alcohol and citrus fruits
- Pelvic muscle rehabilitation, including Kegel exercises and biofeedback
- Medications like anticholinergic medications and vaginal estrogen
- Use of a pessary
- In-office procedures like Botox injections and peripheral nerve stimulation
- Surgical procedures like slings and bladder suspension
If you want to find relief from incontinence, Dr. Roberts can help. She is accepting new patients at our Kyle office. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment with this Austin urologist.
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