We identify treatable causes of overactive bladder (frequency, urgency with urine leakage) using holistic approaches and where medication or procedures are needed the full spectrum of options are offered.
We can help you determine if you are drinking too much water. In addition, simple pelvic floor rehabilitation can be instrumental in treating OAB. In some cases pelvic floor strengthening is needed and in other cases a woman should avoid Kegel exercises entirely. We can help create a treatment plan that is unique for you.
Ultimately, our goal is to avoid unnecessary medication and procedures if other holistic issues can be identified.
All women with OAB symptoms will have a full exam to assess for issues that can contribute such as pelvic floor tone, menopause changes or prolapse. In addition, a full urinary, sexual and bowel history will be taken so we can understand full spectrum of pelvic symptoms.
As part of the initial evaluation, cultures (including atypical bacteria that can go undetected in routine urine testing) are done as well as a voiding diary. A good diary should include measurement of the urine volumes (we provide materials for this) as well as your fluid intake. This is the MOST important part of the evaluation and we do not believe in beginning treatment for overactive bladder until this has been completed. The reason for that is because lack of diary collection on the front end can lead to unnecessary medication or even procedures.
In addition to the above evaluation, pelvic or renal ultrasound may be obtained in cases where uterine/ovarian issues are suspected. Also, cystoscopy (minor office procedure lasting about 1 minute) may be utilized in cases where bladder pathology is suspected (bladder tumor, inflammation, stones).
In keeping with best practice guidelines, we always start with pelvic floor rehabilitation which may mean strengthening for women and relaxation with avoidance of Kegel exercises for others. This is accompanied by behavioral changes that are tailored to findings on your own diary.
We may also utilize bladder relaxation medications like Detrol or Vesicare to help. When women do not respond to an initial course of conservative therapy, we offer bladder Botox therapy with some of the most experienced injectors in the Pacific Northwest. We also offer the full spectrum of neuromodulation options ranging from office treatment (Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation) to implant placement in a minor procedure (InterStim).
There is Such a Thing as Drinking Too Much Water… I came to Athena for a second opinion after I was diagnosed with an overactive bladder. I had been started on Detrol (a medication to help my bladder hold more…
