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Sat | : 9:00am - 12:00pm |
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2:00pm - 5:00pm
Urinary Incontinence Treatment in Singapore
Dr Michael YC Wong, Medical Director & Senior Consultant Urologist
FAMS (Urology), FICS (USA), FRCS (Edinburgh), M Med (Surgery), MBBS (Singapore)
What is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is a condition characterised by the involuntary loss of urine due to reduced bladder control. It can range from occasional leakage during certain activities to more frequent episodes that affect daily life.
There are several types of urinary incontinence, each with different underlying causes. Some people experience symptoms when pressure is placed on the bladder, while others may have a sudden and overwhelming urge to urinate that is difficult to control.
Types of Urinary Incontinence
Stress Urinary Incontinence
Urge Urinary Incontinence
Overflow Incontinence
Mixed Incontinence
What Are the Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence?
The symptoms of urinary incontinence can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some individuals experience occasional urine leakage, while others may develop symptoms that affect their daily activities and quality of life.
If urinary symptoms are persistent or becoming more frequent, medical evaluation may help identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.
What Causes Urinary Incontinence?
Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Women
Women are more likely to develop urinary incontinence due to factors that affect the pelvic floor muscles and support structures around the bladder and urethra.
Common causes include:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Menopause
- Pelvic floor muscle weakness
- Obesity
- Chronic coughing
- Constipation
- Hysterectomy and other pelvic surgery
- Neurological conditions affecting bladder control
Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Men
In men, urinary incontinence is commonly associated with prostate conditions, bladder outlet obstruction and certain neurological disorders.
Common causes include:
- Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- Prostate surgery
- Treatment for prostate cancer
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder stones
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or stroke
- Diabetes-related nerve damage
- Certain medications
Experiencing urine leakage or a loss of bladder control? Urinary incontinence can have several underlying causes that may require medical assessment. Arrange a consultation with Dr Michael Wong to discuss your symptoms.
How Is Urinary Incontinence Diagnosed?
Diagnosing urinary incontinence begins with understanding your symptoms and identifying potential contributing factors. Depending on the type of urinary incontinence suspected, your doctor may recommend further investigations to evaluate bladder function and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Medical History and Symptom Assessment
Your doctor will review your urinary symptoms, fluid intake, medications, medical history and any previous pelvic or prostate procedures. You may also be asked about when leakage occurs and how frequently symptoms affect your daily life.
Physical Examination
A physical examination may be performed to assess the abdomen, pelvic floor muscles, prostate or neurological function, depending on your symptoms.
Urine Tests
Urine testing can help identify urinary tract infections, blood in the urine and other abnormalities that may contribute to bladder symptoms.
Bladder Diary
You may be asked to keep a record of your fluid intake, urinary frequency and leakage episodes over several days. This information can help identify symptom patterns and potential triggers.
Urodynamic Studies
In selected cases, specialised tests may be performed to assess how the bladder stores and empties urine. These investigations can provide additional information when symptoms are complex or when surgery is being considered.
Imaging Studies
Ultrasound or other imaging investigations may be recommended to evaluate the bladder, kidneys and urinary tract.
Treatment Options for Urinary Incontinence
Treatment depends on the type of urinary incontinence, the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Management may involve conservative measures, medications or procedural treatment where appropriate.
Stress Urinary Incontinence Treatment
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor muscle training aims to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and urethra. Consistent practice may improve bladder control in some individuals.
Lifestyle Modifications
Weight management, smoking cessation and addressing chronic cough or constipation may help reduce pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor.
Electromagnetic Incontinence Therapy
This non-surgical treatment uses electromagnetic stimulation to activate pelvic floor muscles while the patient remains fully clothed. Suitability depends on individual assessment.
Bulking Agents
Injectable bulking agents may be used to improve urethral closure and reduce urine leakage in selected patients.
Urge Urinary Incontinence Treatment
Lifestyle Modifications
Reducing caffeine intake, managing fluid consumption and maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce bladder irritation.
Bladder Training
Bladder training involves scheduled voiding and behavioural techniques aimed at improving bladder control over time.
Medications
Certain medications may be prescribed to help reduce bladder overactivity and urinary urgency where appropriate.
Surgical Treatment for Urinary Incontinence
Mid-Urethral Sling Surgery
Mid-urethral sling surgery is commonly performed for stress urinary incontinence in women. During the procedure, a supportive sling is placed beneath the urethra to provide additional support and reduce urine leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure.
The procedure is typically performed using minimally invasive techniques and may be recommended for women with persistent stress urinary incontinence.
Artificial Sphincter
An artificial urinary sphincter is most commonly used in men who develop urinary incontinence following prostate surgery. The device consists of a fluid-filled cuff placed around the urethra, a control pump and a reservoir.
The system allows the patient to control urine flow by activating the pump when urinating. It may be considered for selected patients with moderate to severe urinary incontinence.
What Are The Complications Of Urinary Incontinence?
Without appropriate management, urinary incontinence may affect physical comfort, emotional wellbeing and daily activities.
Potential complications include:
When Should You See a Urinary Incontinence Doctor?
You should consider seeking medical advice if:
Early evaluation may help identify underlying conditions and guide appropriate management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Urinary Incontinence
Is urinary incontinence a normal part of ageing?
Can changing my diet help reduce urinary incontinence?
Can urinary incontinence go away on its own?
Do I need surgery for urinary incontinence?
Is urinary incontinence likely to improve over time or is it a long-term condition?
Meet Our Urinary Incontinence Specialist in Singapore
Dr Michael YC Wong
Dr Michael Wong is a senior consultant urologist with specialised fellowship training in female urology and neurourology in the United States. His clinical practice includes the assessment and management of urinary incontinence in both men and women, including pelvic floor dysfunction, overactive bladder and post-prostate surgery incontinence.
With over 30 years of experience in urology, Dr Wong evaluates urinary symptoms and discusses management options based on each individual's condition and treatment goals.
Let us help you
Restore your urological health.
Make an appointment with Dr Michael Wong to receive a tailored, supportive and targeted care plan.
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3 Mount Elizabeth Road, #10-09,
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
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