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Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) is more common than many people realize, yet it is still widely misunderstood.
The National Association for Continence, NAFC (www.nafc.org) states that 25 million Americans suffer from incontinence. Only one in 12 sufferers seek help because of embarrassment and other reasons. One third of women over the age of 40 experience at least one “accident” per week. The most common cause in this group relates to pregnancy and birthing. Although smoking and other factors contribute, most cases go untreated. Milder cases of incontinence are treated with Kegel exercises with only partial success in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. More severe cases may be treated with surgery. Help has arrived for this curse of motherhood via the Institute of Aesthetic Surgery (IAS) www.iasurgery.net!
New high-tech methods of strengthening the pelvic floor may be the answer for many of these suffering patients. In fact, this technology is so new that the NAFC has not listed it among the various treatments on its website. Electromagnetic induction (EMI) will improve and sometimes even cure stress incontinence (SUI). This technology EMSella (translated electromagnetic chair) “work out” for the pelvic floor muscles is a simple, safe, painless treatment consisting of six sessions of simply sitting on an “energized” chair. Magnets in the seat of the chair like those found in an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) rhythmically and rapidly stimulate the pelvic floor muscles, thus inducing a workout-like tightening of the several muscles that are woven together to support the bladder and pelvic organs. The strength is restored to the sphincter muscle at the bladder outlet, thus improving voluntary control to urinary flow. It has been said that one 28-minute treatment (plan on doing 6 treatments in a 3-week period) with the EMSella (translated electromagnetic chair) is equal to 11,200 Kegel exercises. It is simple, safe, comfortable and does not even require the removal of clothing. Patients can read, watch TV or discuss their next plastic surgery treatment, but don’t bring your cell phone or iPad or you will be trading your bladder leakage for a broken device.
This amazing and wonderful (for those who suffer from leaks) technology EMI has many applications, and with other application devices, it can even shape your “booty” and etch your “abs.”
The underlying cause of SUI typically involves weakened pelvic floor muscles or compromised support structures around the bladder and urethra. These muscles and tissues normally work together to keep the urethra closed when pressure increases in the abdomen. When they weaken, the body loses some of its ability to control urine flow during everyday movements.
Several factors can contribute to the development of SUI. Pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken pelvic floor muscles. Aging naturally reduces muscle tone and tissue elasticity. Hormonal changes during menopause may also affect bladder control. Additionally, chronic coughing, obesity, heavy lifting, or high-impact physical activity can place repeated stress on pelvic support structures, increasing the risk of developing symptoms over time.
Although SUI can be frustrating or embarrassing, it is important to remember that it is a medical condition—and one that can often be effectively treated. Many individuals delay seeking help because they believe leakage is simply a normal part of aging. However, modern medicine offers a wide range of treatment options that can significantly improve quality of life.
For many patients, treatment begins with conservative approaches. Pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegel exercises, help strengthen the muscles responsible for bladder control. When performed consistently, these exercises can restore muscle support and reduce leakage episodes. Physical therapy focused on pelvic floor rehabilitation may also help patients learn proper muscle activation and improve long-term control.
Lifestyle adjustments may also play an important role in symptom management. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor. Limiting bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods may decrease urgency and leakage. In some cases, timed voiding schedules can help retrain the bladder and improve control throughout the day.
When conservative methods are not sufficient, minimally invasive medical treatments may be considered. These options aim to restore proper support to the urethra or improve bladder control mechanisms. Many modern procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and involve minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to normal activities relatively quickly.
The most important step for anyone experiencing symptoms of SUI is to seek professional evaluation. A physician can perform a comprehensive assessment to determine the severity of the condition and identify the most appropriate treatment plan. Individualized care is essential, as each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors are unique.
Open conversations about bladder health can help reduce the stigma surrounding SUI. By understanding the causes and treatment options available, patients can take proactive steps toward regaining confidence and comfort in their daily lives. With the right approach, stress urinary incontinence does not have to control a person’s routine or limit their activities.
Under the care of experienced physicians such as Dr. Gregory, patients can explore safe, effective solutions designed to restore both bladder control and peace of mind.
