Dr. Litrel Discusses Urinary Incontinence After Giving Birth
Hi there! I’m Dr. Michael Litrel, a urogynecologist specializing in surgery and medicine to help women who have experienced childbirth-related damage. One of the most common issues women face after childbirth is urinary incontinence. It’s a condition where a woman involuntarily leaks urine when she coughs, sneezes, or exercises. Today, I want to shed some light on this problem, explain why it occurs, and introduce a simple, effective solution called the suburethral sling procedure.
Prefer to see his video? Watch it here!
Understanding Urinary Incontinence
Before we delve into the solution, let’s understand why urinary incontinence happens. Imagine this cross-section of a woman’s body. The front represents the uterus or womb, and the back is the vagina. During childbirth, a baby’s head can damage the structures that support the vagina, leading to pelvic organ prolapse. This condition causes the urethra, the hole that leads out of the bladder, to drop, resulting in urine leakage when pressure increases in the bladder.
The Suburethral Sling Procedure
The suburethral sling is a remarkable solution to address urinary incontinence. This small, simple device made of polypropylene is placed underneath the bladder to support the urethra. Once in place, it prevents the urethra from coming out when a woman coughs or sneezes, effectively stopping urinary leakage.
The Procedure
The suburethral sling procedure is relatively quick and straightforward. It typically takes around 15 minutes to perform in the operating room, and patients can return home the same day. While there may be some discomfort for a few days, the recovery process is generally smooth. Patients are advised to refrain from sexual activity for about a month to allow proper healing.
Regaining Control and Confidence
Urinary incontinence can significantly disrupt a woman’s life and confidence. Many women suffer in silence, believing it’s a normal part of motherhood. However, there’s no need to endure this condition when a straightforward and highly effective solution is available.
We’re Here to Help
As a double board-certified urogynecologist, I’ve witnessed how urinary incontinence affects women physically and emotionally. However, I’m also confident in the effectiveness of the suburethral sling procedure. It’s a simple, minimally invasive solution that can bring significant relief to women facing this challenge. Remember, seeking help is the first step towards overcoming urinary incontinence and reclaiming your confidence.
Call us today at 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.
