Urethral Bulking Agents

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition in women that can cause urine leakage with coughing, laughing, sneezing, or physical activity. Urethral bulking agents are a minimally invasive treatment option offered at Urology Specialists of Ohio to help manage SUI.

What are Urethral Bulking Agents?

Urethral bulking agents are synthetic materials injected around the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. These bulking agents add bulk and support to the urethra, helping it close more effectively and prevent urine leakage during activities that increase pressure on the bladder.

Who is a Candidate for Urethral Bulking Agents?

Urethral bulking agents may be suitable for women with mild to moderate SUI who have not experienced significant improvement with conservative measures such as pelvic floor muscle exercises or lifestyle changes. Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will discuss your individual case and medical history to determine if urethral bulking agents are the right approach for you.

Types of Urethral Bulking Agents

There are different types of urethral bulking agents available. Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will recommend the most appropriate type based on your specific needs and preferences. The most common type of urethral bulking agent is made from synthetic materials.

• Synthetic materials: Various synthetic bulking agents are available, each with different properties regarding permanence and injection technique.

Urethral Bulking Agent Injection Procedure

Urethral bulking agent injection is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed on an outpatient basis at Urology Specialists of Ohio. Here's a general overview:

• You may receive local anesthesia to numb the area.
• A small needle is used to inject the bulking agent material around the urethra.
• Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) may be used for guidance during the injection.
• The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.

Recovery After Urethral Bulking Agent Injection

Recovery after urethral bulking agent injection is quick. You may experience some burning with urination or slight blood in the urine for a short time. Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will provide specific post-operative instructions.

Benefits of Urethral Bulking Agents

Urethral bulking agents offer several advantages for treating SUI in women:

• Minimally invasive: No surgical incisions are required.
• Outpatient procedure: You can typically go home the same day.
• Relatively short procedure time: The injection itself takes less than 30 minutes.
• Improved quality of life: Effective treatment of SUI can significantly improve your quality of life by reducing urine leakage and increasing your confidence in participating in daily activities.

Urology Specialists of Ohio: Your Partner in Women's Urinary Health

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we understand the challenges faced by women with SUI. We offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment options, including urethral bulking agents, to help you regain control of your bladder function and improve your quality of life. Our urologists are experienced in performing urethral bulking agent injection and will work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.