Incontinence: Ask the Expert

I have refrain from activities over time. I practice Taekwondo for over 2 years. I became frustrated with new instructors who were not very supportive or respectful towards me if couldn't jump higher or more vigorously. I always used the bathroom the last thing out the door. During testing periods or tournaments, which can last all day and include an out of town drive, I was always anal about voiding whenever I had the chanceI'd often wear a pantyliner, just in case. Sparing with young women and guys was often very strenous and I'd experience leakage. I also leak when I sneeze (have seasonal allergies), or laugh too much.

I'm scheduled for this new less invasive procedure with my ob-gyn next month. I'm drawing a blank on what its called. Basically, it creates collegen to thicken the urethra enhancing its ability to not let urine leak out during stressful activity. The procedure is done in the doctors office and your activity should be cut back for a few days. It is my understanding that in a few months following the procedure I should notice 70-80% inmprovement. I don't know if insurance will cover it or not,

I would suggest that you ask experts about this new procedure, I watched a DVD that my doctor gave me. My memory isn't pristine.

Anybody going through divorce, too? Maybe we can talk.

Injection of collagen into the urethra is not a new procedure for the treatment of stress incontinence; it’s been around for over 10 years.  The amount of improvement in leakage women see after the procedure varies, and it is usually less than that achieved with surgery.  Also, the effects of collagen injection are not long lasting, and the injections usually need to be repeated every 6-12 months.  I would suggest you discuss with your doctor all of the options for treatment of your condition, including pelvic muscle exercises and other surgical procedures (some of which do not require overnight hospital stay), and why s/he thinks collagen is the best for you.  It might be the best, but you should have all of the information to understand why.