Non-surgical management of urinary stress incontinence

Abstract

This article reviews the non-surgical approach to urinary stress incontinence. As the cost of medical care increases and the waiting lists for surgical operations grow bigger, non-surgical management of incontinence takes on importance. The cure rates or improvement of quality of life with conservative management of urinary stress incontinence are not as good as with the surgical approach but it is an option which may be used in selected patients. Whenever a patient or the health care provider embarks upon the non-surgical options, consideration should be given to the success rates of the modality, either used alone or in combination. The motivation and compliance of patient is important, individuals who have realistic expectations from non-surgical management of urinary stress incontinence usually have the best result.

Recent literature was reviewed and an attempt has been made to present an objective assessment for all the modalities currently available for the incontinent woman. It is necessary to stress the need for the use of a combination of modalities for better results when non-surgical approach is used as the first line option. It is also important to be empathetic and supportive of such women as they usually have an extremely poor self esteem, are depressed and reclusive.