Medical expert explains types and treatments for female urinary incontinence

Obstetrician and gynecologist Associate Professor Dr. Neşet Gümüşburun has outlined the different types of urinary incontinence in women and their respective treatment approaches. He identified three primary types: stress incontinence, which occurs during coughing, sneezing, or exercise; urge incontinence, characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable need to urinate; and mixed incontinence, where both types are present.

Gümüşburun emphasized that surgery is not always necessary. Initial treatment strategies often include lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, reducing caffeine intake, regulating fluid and nutrition habits, bladder training, and pelvic floor exercises. For urge incontinence, medication may be prescribed when necessary.

Surgical interventions, such as TOT (Transobturator Tape) or TVT (Tension-free Vaginal Tape) sling procedures, are primarily considered for patients with stress incontinence. These procedures involve placing a support band under the urethra, while the Burch procedure utilizes sutures for support. A detailed medical evaluation, including gynecological examinations and additional testing, is required before determining the appropriate treatment plan.