Stay Healthy – Know the Top 5 Causes of Incontinence

Bladder control problems can be particularly embarrassing, which typically causes people to remain silent about their suffering. Unfortunately, what most people don’t understand is that they don’t need to suffer in silence and that incontinence can be improved or cured in many cases.

The first step towards finding effective incontinence treatment is gaining an understanding of the causes behind the condition and consulting with a board-certified urologist such as the acclaimed physicians at Comprehensive Urology.

What is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence or urine leakage occurs when the muscles of the bladder that control the flow of urine either contract or relax involuntarily. Incontinence causes problems for millions of men and women, affecting 1 out of 10 people over the age of 65. Due to differences in the urinary anatomical structures, women tend to suffer from bladder issues more often than men.

Bladder leakage is characterized by specific ranges and types. The ranges of bladder issues are:

• Mild incontinence
• Occasional bladder leakage
• Chronic uncontrolled urination

Five Common Types of Urinary Incontinence

Stress Incontinence

This is the most common type of urinary incontinence and is caused by pressure or sudden muscle contractions on the bladder. Stress incontinence can happen when pressure on the bladder increases during common daily activities — such as when you exercise, laugh, sneeze, or cough. Incontinence of this type is often due to an inherent weakness of the pelvic floor muscles, which may occur as a result of stress during pregnancy or childbirth, or due to the beginning of menopause.

Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence is sometimes called an overactive bladder and occurs when a person feels the urge to urinate but is unable to hold back the urine long enough to make it to the bathroom. This type can be experienced by people who have had a stroke or suffer a chronic disease like diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis. In some cases, urge incontinence may be an early sign of bladder cancer.

Overflow Incontinence

Overflow incontinence is characterized by the inability to empty the bladder completely and the remaining urine in time increases and eventually overflows and leaks out of the full bladder as new urine is produced. Loss of bladder sensations (nerve damage such as in diabetics) and weakening of bladder muscles by chronic overfilling are the most common cause of overflow incontinence in women and can be found in people with diabetes and spinal cord injuries.

Functional Incontinence

This is one of the few types of incontinence that have less to do with a bladder disorder and is more a problem with navigating the logistics of getting to the bathroom in time. Functional incontinence is most commonly found in elderly or disabled people who may have normal bladder control but suffer from mobility limitations or confusion that interferes with their ability to empty their bladder in a typical fashion.

Gross Total Incontinence

Gross total incontinence refers to constant urine leakage from the bladder and may be the result of an anatomical defect, spinal cord injury, an abnormal opening in the bladder (fistula), or as a result of an unsuccessful urinary tract surgery.

These are common causes:

• Overactive bladder muscles
• Weakened pelvic floor muscles
• Nerve damage
• Interstitial cystitis or other bladder conditions

While urinary incontinence itself is not a disease, it can be a symptom of an underlying problem. Educating yourself about the risk factors can help reduce the possibility of developing incontinence and help promote lasting urinary health.

Five Risk Factors to Watch Out For

Being Female

Females are twice as likely as men to experience stress incontinence. This is due to childbearing but can also be experienced with the onset of menopause and the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles over time.

Advancing Age

Contrary to popular belief, urinary incontinence isn’t considered a normal part of aging. However, as we get older, our bladder and urinary sphincter muscles weaken, which may result in frequent urination or even unexpected urges to urinate that can contribute to the condition.

Excess Body Fat

Obesity and excess body fat can cause a whole range of health problems including stress incontinence as a result of increasing pressure on the bladder, which can lead to bladder leakage during typical activities like exercise, coughing or sneezing.

Smoking

Cigarette smoking can cause chronic coughing, which in turn can create urine leakage. This is because a constant cough can damage the muscles of the pelvic floor, leading to a weak bladder. What’s more, smoking is a known bladder irritant, which could cause overactive bladder symptoms.

Other Chronic Diseases

Many conditions can increase the risk of urinary incontinence including vascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, prostate cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, etc.

Learn more about potential causes of urinary leakage and incontinence treatment at WebMD.com.

In a Nutshell: Incontinence Causes
What is Urinary Incontinence? Incontinence is characterized by a weak bladder and/or the inability to control urine leakage.
What are the Most Common Types of Urinary Incontinence? Stress, Urge, Overflow, Functional, and Gross Total Incontinence
What are the Most Common Incontinence Causes? Sex, Age, Obesity, Smoking, or other chronic diseases

Contact Our Urology Experts Today!

If you have concerns about incontinence treatment or are looking for more information on bladder control, schedule a consultation with one of our talented urologists in Beverly Hills today.

Next, read Surgical vs Non-Surgical: Which Incontinence Treatment is Right for You?

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Surgical vs. Non-Surgical: Which Incontinence Treatment Is Right for You?

Urinary incontinence may not be a physically debilitating condition but it can be emotionally devastating. At Comprehensive Urology, we understand the impact it can have on your life. We talk to patients every day about incontinence issues such as an overactive bladder or urinary leakage. One of the most common questions we get is, “Which urinary incontinence treatment is right for me?”

There are many factors that go into determining which type of urinary incontinence treatment is suitable for each patient. One major factor is the type of incontinence you have:

• Stress Incontinence
• Urge Incontinence (overactive bladder)
• Overflow incontinence
• Functional Incontinence
• Mixed Incontinence (a combination of the above)

In general, though, the best way to get an answer that specifically addresses your unique situation is to consult with a board-certified urologist.

However, let’s take a look at the variety of urinary incontinence treatment options available so that you have a better understanding of what to expect before you have that consultation.

Non-Surgical Urinary Incontinence Treatment Options

Before deciding on and undergoing treatment, a diagnosis must be made to understand your medical history as well as the type and cause(s) of your incontinence.

Once the proper diagnosis is made, then the correct treatment – or combination thereof – will be discussed and determined.

Modification of Habits and Behaviors

One of the worst feelings of incontinence is the loss of control. It’s a helpless feeling that can be difficult to bear. By changing some of your habits and behaviors, you can reclaim control of an overactive bladder.

By adjusting how much fluid you ingest, you have control over the amount of urine that builds up in your bladder. Also, creating a schedule of when to go to the bathroom can help keep mild urges under control.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

With the proper physical therapy, you can regain control over your bladder to help regulate your urges.

One of the primary goals of physical therapy is to help patients avoid incontinence surgery. To make this happen, physical therapy helps incontinence patients strengthen their pelvic floor muscles and sphincter so they can “hold it in” more easily.

Before undergoing such therapy, a biofeedback machine is often employed to measure the activity and strength of the pelvic floor muscles. This technique helps discern which areas physical therapy can address and monitor.

An office procedure to place a removable device called a vaginal pessary in the vagina is also an effective type of incontinence treatment. Made of silicone, rubber, or plastic, pessaries are inserted into the vagina or anus to support areas affected by pelvic organ prolapse by working out your muscles to hold the device in place. The devices can fortify your pelvic floor muscles.

Learn more about vaginal pessaries at WebMD.com.

Incontinence Medications

Many times, urinary incontinence treatment involves medications prescribed alongside behavioral modifications.

Anticholinergic medications are effective at relaxing overactive bladder muscles, which can help you have better control. Other treatments, such as topical estrogen medications, help limit urine linkage by rejuvenating vaginal tissue.

Holistic Therapies for Incontinence

Holistic therapies offer a variety of benefits, including the fact that they treat your body as a whole instead of simply focusing on one issue, condition, or area. Some beneficial holistic therapies we suggest include the following:

Everyone loves massages, but in this case, a body massage can mitigate the physical stresses and help relax the muscles that controlling your urges.

The ancient practice of acupuncture also helps reduce incontinence symptoms by correcting imbalances in your body via stimulation of carefully selected acupuncture points.

Have you tried meditation? It can help make you stress-free and relaxed, increasing your ability to maintain control of your urge to urinate.

You can also help your cause by eating well and exercising, among other lifestyle tweaks, as well.

Incontinence Surgery

Incontinence surgery is often the last resort, but if nothing else works, it’s a viable option. The following surgical incontinence treatment options are effective.

A bladder neck suspension procedure reinforces the neck of your bladder so that it won’t sag and make your urges difficult to control. Recovery time is 2-6 weeks, during which time you may have to urinate using a catheter for a number of days.

Sling surgery for incontinence is also a popular choice. Using a synthetic material or your body’s own tissue, a sling is fashioned to help keep your urethra supported and closed when you cough, sneeze, or laugh. Slings come in various types – tension-free slings, adjustable slings, and conventional slings. These procedures are generally done on an outpatient basis but involve 2-6 weeks of recovery.

A very effective surgical incontinence treatment involves bulking agent injections into the urethral tissue with the intent of reducing leakage. The procedure is an outpatient one. The following materials are commonly used in bulking agents:

• Collagen
• Silicone implant
• Carbon coated beads made of zirconium

Contact an Incontinence Specialist Today to Find Out Which Option is Right for You

If you’re dealing with incontinence issues, a variety of urinary incontinence treatment options can relieve your symptoms and give you your life back, not to mention control of your urges. To learn more about your non-surgical or surgical incontinence treatment options, contact the Los Angeles incontinence specialists at Comprehensive Urology for a consultation by visiting us online or calling 310.307.3552.

Next, read These 4 Factors Could Mean Urinary Incontinence is in Your Future

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These 4 Factors Could Mean Urinary Incontinence is in Your Future

Remember the last time you laughed so hard that you started coughing? If you’d prefer not to recall because you also unexpectedly leaked urine, then you may be dealing with incontinence. Surprisingly, many women simply dismiss such loss of bladder control as an unavoidable side effect of age.

Aging does contribute to female incontinence by weakening the bladder and urethra muscles, reducing the bladder’s ability to hold urine as well as its capacity to store urine. However, other factors could also be responsible.

At the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, a division of Comprehensive Urology, we are the Los Angeles incontinence specialists, and we specialize in diagnosing incontinence causes, advising patients of their risks, and helping patients learn effective prevention methods.

Types of Urinary Incontinence

Incontinence is not a single disease, nor should it be treated as one. Often, it is a symptom of an underlying health issue. Also, it can be an endless source of embarrassment or inconvenience because it affects traveling, work productivity, social engagements, and self-esteem.

The following are types of female incontinence that you may be experiencing:

• Stress incontinence is associated with urine leakage due to sudden movements, such as laughing, sneezing, getting up, or coughing
• Urge incontinence, also called overactive bladder (OAB), is when you have constant urges to urinate even when you don’t have a lot of urine stored in the bladder and also leak some urine; it’s an involuntary, nearly continuous urge to urinate plus leakage
• Overflow incontinence is when your bladder overflows with urine (likely due to reduced bladder sensation)
• Mixed urinary incontinence is a combination of any of the above

The type of bladder issue you have depends on a variety of conditions. However, if you are 40 or older, the following four factors could mean you are at risk of experiencing incontinence issues of some type.

Factor 1: Sex (Incontinence is More Common in Females)

Although men are susceptible to incontinence, especially if they have prostate issues such as prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate, women are more likely than men to be incontinent.

Causes of bladder issues in women can be attributed to the following:

• Pregnancy causes hormone fluctuations and extra pressure of the uterus on the bladder
• Childbirth can cause weakened vaginal muscles as well damaged nerves and tissue that can lead to a “dropped” pelvic floor muscles and finally stress incontinence
• During menopause, a loss of estrogen production can lead to a steady decline in the health of bladder or urethra tissue and lead to stress incontinence
• A hysterectomy can weaken or damage pelvic floor muscles

Factor 2: Weight (Obesity)

Being overweight is one of the major causes or worsening of incontinence, so if you are above your optimal weight, your risks have probably skyrocketed.

The excess weight literally puts pressure on your bladder and nearby muscles. The organ and its related muscles eventually weaken and leave you to deal with stress incontinence. Any cough, sneeze or other sudden movement can lead to embarrassing leakage.

For incontinence prevention, a regular exercise program and eating right helps you lose the necessary weight to reduce the pressure on your bladder and help reduce your accidents.

Factor 3: Diseases, Injuries, and Other Medical Conditions

Common causes of incontinence include a variety of medical conditions. Diabetes can increase risks by weakening sensations of the bladder. Infections, such as urinary tract infections, can cause bladder irritation and lead to temporary urge incontinence.

Neurological conditions are also nefarious causes of bladder issues, including the following:

• Stroke
• Spinal injury
• Brain tumor
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease

As if each of the above conditions is not bad enough, they can disrupt nerve signals in the urological system and lead to bladder accidents.

Factor 4: Smoking-Related Leakage

You may be wondering how smoking can be one of the causes of incontinence, but it’s just another in a long line of harsh impacts that smoking has on the body. Smoking is one of the major causes of stress incontinence in Los Angeles due to the fact that it can cause chronic coughing.

Eventually, this causes damage to the pelvic floor muscles, weakening them and making the bladder unstable.

But that’s not all. Smoking can irritate the lining of any of your inner organs – not just your heart or lungs – and your bladder is at risk as well, which can cause symptoms of overactive bladder.

Obviously, a major prevention method is to stop smoking (or, even better, never start in the first place).

Reliable Treatment Options for Bladder Accidents

Regardless of the causes of urine leakage, you have a variety of treatment options available. You’ll have to schedule a consultation with an incontinence specialist in Los Angeles to find the appropriate treatment plan for you, but you have a choice of effective medications, non-pharmacological solutions (at Comprehensive Urology, we have our own special, customized rehabilitation programs), surgery, and more.

Learn about treating incontinence with Botox® at WebMD.com.

Talk to Comprehensive Urology Today If You Suspect You Have Incontinence

Although female incontinence is not a threat to your health, it does put your self-esteem at risk and inconvenience many aspects of your life. If you believe that your incontinence risks have increased due to your lifestyle or any other factor, don’t hesitate to contact the Los Angeles incontinence experts today at Comprehensive Urology to schedule a consultation. Call 310.307.3552 or contact us online to discuss your situation.

In a Nutshell: Female Urinary Incontinence

• Definition: Involuntary and unwanted loss of urine (from a few drops to a full bladder)
• Types: Stress Incontinence (leakage with physical activity, coughs, sneezes, laughing, etc); Urge Incontinence (urgency to go to the bathroom and accidents if not in time); Overflow (lack of bladder sensation until urine overflows), and Mixed Incontinence, which is combination of the above
• Causes: Pregnancy and multiple vaginal deliveries, menopause, overactive bladder, neurological issues, diabetes, spines issues, etc
• Treatments: Multiple options based on the cause and type of incontinence. Lifestyle modification, medications (to relax the bladder, lose weight, quit smoking), pelvic floor physical therapy and exercises, peripheral tibial nerve stimulation, surgical procedures (e.g. slings, pelvic organ prolapse repair, injection of Botox® into the bladder, sacral nerve stimulator implantation, injection of urethral bulking agents, etc. depending on the condition)

Next, read Have You Undergone a Hysterectomy? Here’s How to Fight Incontinence

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Have You Undergone a Hysterectomy? Here’s How to Fight Incontinence

At the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, we know that urinary incontinence can be embarrassing even though it usually isn’t symptomatic of a serious health condition. It can happen to both males and females regardless of age or health, but it affects women more often than it does men. While pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause are commonly responsible for the condition, a hysterectomy is one of the most common causes of incontinence in women in Los Angeles

As you grow older, the chances of incontinence rise due to weakened or stretched pelvic muscles, often resulting from medications, urological infections, or even surgery. Depending on the type and cause of urinary incontinence, a skilled urologist can determine the best incontinence treatments for each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Types of Bladder Control Issues

Stress incontinence (SI)

Stress incontinence refers to the condition where pressure from physical actions (sneezing, coughing, exercising, etc.) squeezes the bladder, causing urine leakage. This often occurs because the pelvic muscles are so stretched that they cannot tighten enough to support your bladder.

Urge incontinence

Urge incontinence means you have a strong urge to pee – even if there’s only a little bit of urine in the bladder – but can’t get to the bathroom on time. The bladder muscle is so overactive that it pushes urine out of the bladder unexpectedly.

A combination of the two, mixed incontinence, is common, as well as overflow incontinence, which causes an overflow of urine due to a blocked urethra.

Hysterectomy-Related Urinary Issues

According to research, women who undergo a hysterectomy appear to have an increased risk of SI, usually within the first five years after the surgery. Yet, it is believed that there are many women with bladder control issues following a hysterectomy who never seek help, mostly because they’re unaware that effective incontinence treatments are available.

If you suspect that you’re suffering from some type of female bladder issue in the Los Angeles area, be sure to see an experienced, board-certified urologist for a proper diagnosis.

Receive an Expert Diagnostic Evaluation

At the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, we perform our diagnoses at our Beverly Hills practice by carefully combing through your history to determine the cause and type of female urinary issues.

Often, we’ll evaluate the urine capacity of your bladder to determine if the bladder muscles are functioning properly. In addition to that, we might use various techniques to measure bladder pressure and urine flow.

We could also run the following tests to identify the exact cause(s):

Urinalysis – This tests for infections, stones, and other potential causes of bladder leakage.

Stress test – You simply cough and the doctor observes how much urine leaks.

Blood test – A sample of your blood is taken and rushed to a lab to be examined for potential health issues behind the loss of bladder control.

Ultrasound – This innovative method produces an image of your kidneys, bladder, and urethra using sound waves.

Cystoscopy – Your doctor will examine your urethra and bladder using a tiny camera inserted via a thin tube.

State-of-the-Art Female Incontinence Treatments

At the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, your health is our concern. Treatments for a weak or overactive bladder can involve a single approach or a combination of therapies, but many of our patients aren’t seeking complicated intervention as much as they’re seeking a way to at least be in control.

Even if you suffer from incontinence as a result of a hysterectomy, we encourage you to be proactive. As each case is different, your doctor will recommend the best incontinence treatments for your unique needs, which may include the following:

Modifying Habits

In many cases, this is among the most consistent and effective incontinence treatment. By scheduling trips to the bathroom and proactively managing your bladder, you can help keep leakage under control and to a minimum.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy, where you can learn specific exercises that target and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, can help give you control over your bladder, which is really all most patients are asking for.

Holistic Therapies

The following recommendations can actually help you manage your urinary condition:

• Meditation helps reduce stress and calm the mind and body, which can help you remain in control of your bladder.
• Acupuncture can restore balance to your body by stimulating the nerves, blood flow, and oxygen within your body, which can help reduce the symptoms of urine leakage or loss of bladder control.
• A massage relaxes your body and muscles, which can help alleviate the stress on your urological system.

Each of these incontinence treatments can be supplemented and made more effective by eating a proper diet, exercising regularly, and making other simple lifestyle adjustments, as well.

Medications

In addition to behavioral changes, medication as part of incontinence treatments can be effective. Common incontinence medications include anticholinergic medications, which help calm the muscles of an overactive bladder, and topical estrogen, which rejuvenates vaginal tissue and can reduce urine leakage symptoms.

Non-Surgical Treatments

If medications, habit changes, or other incontinence treatments don’t work, several non-surgical treatments – including pessaries and urethral inserts – can assist with female incontinence.

Surgery

For many women, this is the last resort. Various surgical options are available for urinary incontinence, including pelvic support procedures or endoscopic injections to limit leakage.

Contact a Female Urology Specialist in LA

Hysterectomy incontinence is common though irritating and embarrassing. However, effective types of incontinence treatments are available to offer relief and control. For more information, contact the Los Angeles incontinence experts at the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction today for a consultation. Contact us online or call 310.307.3552 to schedule an appointment.

Next, read our blog, ThermiVa: The Answer to Your Problems “Down There.”

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ThermiVa®: The Answer to Your Problems “Down There”

Only so many years ago, most women would rather stay silent about their normal genital issues to avoid a feeling of embarrassment. A woman might be hard pressed to discuss private bodily issues, such as urinary incontinence, uncomfortable vaginal dryness, or even loose and unattractive labia even with a close friend, let alone a doctor. But with the introduction of the vaginal rejuvenation device ThermiVa, millions of women are booking appointments to take advantage of the life-changing benefits. ThermiVa treatments have given women the confidence to address a wide range of urinary and gynecological symptoms simply because the device offers amazing results without any need for painful surgery, unpredictable medications, or downtime.

Urinary incontinence, loss of sensation, and vulvovaginal dryness may be common symptoms of aging and childbirth, but that doesn’t mean that women should just live with them. ThermiVa offers a simple solution to a myriad of feminine health issues. Unlike in previous years, women can get the help they need without having to undergo a vaginoplasty or labiaplasty. Get in touch with the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction in Beverly Hills to begin your vaginal rejuvenation journey with ThermiVa today.

A Non-Surgical Solution for Female Urinary Incontinence and Gynecological Issues in Los Angeles

ThermiVa uses radiofrequency technology to gently warm internal and external tissue, such as the labia majora and minora, and the vaginal canal, which not only shrinks and tightens the tissue but also stimulates collagen and elastin fiber production. These fibers are major components of skin and connective tissue. They essentially help the skin feel firm and supple again. The non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatment ThermiVa has a wide range of benefits for the look, feel, and function of a woman’s vagina and also bladder, offering an incredibly effective solution for the following issues:

Stress Urinary Incontinence

Female stress urinary incontinence is very common among women of all ages, whether due to menopause, childbirth, pregnancy, hysterectomy, or other condition. If the uterine and pelvic muscles become stretched or weakened (pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, etc) it can be difficult for women to control their bladders, resulting in leaks or accidents, especially when exerting pressure on the bladder (stress incontinence) by sneezing, squatting, running, or other activity. ThermiVa treatments can help women regain control by tightening and firming the pelvic muscles and tissue responsible for urination. Using ThermiVa to reduce female urinary incontinence can also help prevent recurring urinary tract infections and yeast infections.

Vaginal Dryness

The majority of women entering perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause will experience vaginal dryness as a result of their bodies’ decreased estrogen production; however, dryness can occur as a result of other health conditions as well. Without adequate moisture in the area, the delicate skin can tear or become irritated and women can experience pain during sex and even vaginal atrophy or prolapse. The radiofrequency waves of ThermiVa help improve natural moisture and lubrication by stimulating blood flow and nerve generation in the tissue, which helps aid in tissue and gland function in and around the vagina.

Loose, Stretched Tissue

Age, hormone fluctuations, pregnancy, and childbirth can cause the delicate vaginal tissue to stretch and sag, which can make many women feel self-conscious or embarrassed. In some cases, the sagging skin can be extended to the point that even walking and moving creates painful friction against the skin, or the extended labia may even be visible when wearing tight-fitting clothing. ThermiVa treatment offers a quick solution to vaginal looseness by significantly tightening the loose skin, dramatically improving the appearance as well as the feel of a woman’s labia and vulvar area.

Weakened Pelvic Muscles

Pregnancy and childbirth can put enormous strain on a woman’s pelvic muscles, whether or not she has a vaginal delivery or c-section. The pelvic muscles and surrounding tissue are crucial for bladder function and gynecological health. Weakened pelvic muscles can lead to prolapse, urinary incontinence, and decreased sexual satisfaction. Fortunately, when administered by a skilled Beverly Hills urologist, like the doctors at Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, ThermiVa can make the muscles and tissue of the pelvic region firmer and more stable. The stronger pelvic muscles also help women experience more intense orgasms as a result, making ThermiVa treatments an ideal solution for women as well as their partners.

Learn more about pelvic prolapse at WebMD.com.

Loss of Sensitivity

As the vaginal canal and tissues become loose or stretched the nerves can become strained and dulled as a result. Many women experience less sexual satisfaction and sensitivity as they grow older, which can significantly reduce their sexual desire and negatively impact their romantic relationship. ThermiVa emits a radiofrequency energy that stimulates collagen production as well as increased blood flow and nerve development in the vagina. After just one ThermiVa treatment, many women notice a profound improvement in their sex lives and can even achieve multiple orgasms. Many happy patients in Los Angeles credit ThermiVa with recharging their love life.

In a Nutshell: ThermiVa® Non-Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation

• What is it? A non-surgical office-based device that uses radiofrequency technology to promote natural collagen production and tissue rejuvenation by application of gentle thermal energy.
• Benefits: Significant improvement in the appearance of external female genitalia (even with one session), tighter vagina, improved lubrication, enhanced orgasms, better urinary control, better vaginal sensations.
• Details: 30-min sessions, only 3 treatment sessions in a series, results last 9-12 months, zero downtime, no pain or discomfort

Contact Our ThermiVa Experts Today!

If you suffer from incontinence, discomfort, or other vaginal issues, schedule a consultation with a talented urologist in Beverly Hills to learn about how ThermiVa treatments can help you. Most women enjoy noticeable (and visible) results after just one session. After the standard three sessions, women experience a complete transformation of the vagina and bladder. Don’t wait to regain the control and pleasure you deserve at any age!

Next, read ThermiVa® vs. FemiLift®: What Treatment is Right for You?

The post ThermiVa®: The Answer to Your Problems “Down There” appeared first on IncontinenceDr.

The Truth about Vaginal Reconstruction

Talking about changes to the physical appearance of your genitals is often seen as something of a taboo. It can be embarrassing and, often, you feel as if you’re the only one in the world who has such a problem. But you’re not – millions of women are in the same boat.

At the Institute for Incontinence, Vaginal Reconstruction & Women’s Health in Los Angeles, we understand your anxiety. We specialize in diagnosing and treating women who have cosmetic insecurities or medical concerns with their vaginas. Contact the Institute online or call today at 310.307.3552 to schedule an appointment.

What Exactly is Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Very simply put, vaginal reconstruction re-contours your vagina, which can lose its shape after childbirth, injury, aging, or significant weight loss.

A vaginal reconstruction (sometimes called vaginal rejuvenation or aesthetic vaginal surgery) can refer to vaginoplasty (tightening of the vagina), labiaplasty (reshaping of the inner lips), vulvaplasty (reshaping the outer lips) or non-invasive ThermiVa ®. It can also include any combination of the four procedures.

Read on to find out 5 more truths associated with vaginal reconstruction:

Truth 1: What Actually Loosens Your Vagina

Your vagina can gradually loosen through the years from factors not remotely associated with sex. One example is if you’ve given birth to multiple children, which can cause decreased vaginal elasticity due to muscle fatigue. The result is that your vaginal muscles won’t fully contract.

Another factor is age, which causes lower estrogen levels. This causes your vaginal walls to become thinner and less elastic, robbing those muscles of their former tautness.

A vaginal lift can restore firmness, elasticity, and youthfulness.

Truth 2: Labia Reduction is Possible

It’s commonly thought that your vagina cannot be tightened through a vaginal reconstruction procedure, but this is simply not true. Using traditional or innovative alternative means, your labia can be reduced and reshaped exactly how you want.

However, it is absolutely a bad idea for a young woman or girl under the age of 21 to undergo this procedure for anything other than medical reasons (a traumatic injury to the vagina, for example). For most young women and girls, it is not necessary for your vagina to be tightened.

Truth 3: Vaginal Surgery is Not Just for Cosmetic Reasons

A large number of our patients here at the Institute don’t undergo vaginal rejuvenation for cosmetic reasons. Medically, this procedure offers them relief from various physical issues, such pain or irritation.

After childbirth, your urethra could have lowered or your bladder could have dropped, causing you severe pain or incontinence. Maybe your enlarged labia causes irritation when you wear certain clothes you enjoy wearing. Sometimes, stretched labia make sex uncomfortable or even painful.

Los Angeles vaginal reconstruction can effectively treat any of these issues. However, non-invasive methods like ThermiVa® can be as effective as surgical options, but without the invasive nature and recovery time.

Truth 4: Labia Reduction Can Be Performed By Traditional or Alternative Means

Traditional – Traditional vaginal reconstruction is usually performed on an outpatient basis and under local or general anesthesia. Very small incisions are made in your labia minor or labia majora to reshape them how you want. When healed, the incisions usually don’t leave any scarring because they are closed with dissolvable sutures.

You can return to work in 3-5 days, but you’ll be prohibited from exercise for the first 1-2 weeks and sex for about a month. After 3-4 weeks, the full effect of the procedure will become evident.

Non-Surgical Treatment – Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation is now more common than traditional surgery. This non-invasive procedure uses a controlled heating through ThermiVa to tighten tissue. Your urologist has complete control of the procedure’s intensity to contract the collagen and elastin in your tissue to give you the long-term tightness and shape you want.

The procedure is safe and comfortable. Furthermore, there is almost no downtime – you can resume normal activity or exercise the same day as treatment.

This procedure also helps with issues such as mild incontinence or vaginal dryness and also restores a tighter appearance to your vagina, which can boost your sensations during sex and increase your self-confidence when wearing the tight, sexy clothes that you make look stunning!

Learn more about labiaplasty at WebMD.com.

Truth 5: It’s Designed to Be Permanent, But …

Vaginal reconstruction, whether surgical or otherwise, was designed to be permanent. However, the reality is this – if you have another child later on after surgery, or if you gain a large amount of weight, you can expect the appearance of your reconfigured vagina to be altered once again.

In a Nutshell: Vaginal Reconstruction and Rejuvenating Treatments

• What is it for? Both for aesthetic (appearance) and functional (less irritation and improved sex life) reasons.
• What can be fixed? Almost any changes including loose and enlarged vaginal canal, droopy appearance of external labia, redundancy of internal labia, etc
• Techniques: Non-invasive and highly effective radiofrequency treatments (ThermiVa®), surgery through small incisions on the labia, surgery through the vagina (reform the canal), etc

Contact Beverly Hills Vaginal Reconstruction Specialists with Your Questions

Vaginal reconstruction is nothing to be embarrassed about. It simply restores the tightness and tone of your vagina and eliminates looseness from childbirth or aging. Restoring your vagina to its youthful shape and tightness will enhance your intimate moments. Learn more today by contacting an expert Los Angeles urologist at the Institute for Incontinence, Vaginal Reconstruction & Women’s Health through our online contact form or by calling 310.231.5234.

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ThermiVa® vs. FemiLift®: What Treatment is Right for You?

The number of vaginal rejuvenation treatments has grown dramatically in the U.S. in just the past few years, particularly as more and more women are looking for solutions to the most common feminine health concerns. Fortunately, the treatments for such common issues as female incontinence, vaginal laxity, or pelvic prolapse have become so technologically advanced that women can enjoy dramatic improvements without the need for surgery.

Today, the most innovative treatments available to help women overcome uncomfortable, embarrassing, and even painful urological and gynecological issues are ThermiVa and FemiLift. Both of these feminine rejuvenation devices are non-surgical, non-invasive, and do not require anesthesia in order to help women reclaim their vaginal health and confidence. To learn the difference between ThermiVa and FemiLift, and determine which vaginal rejuvenation treatment is best suited to your needs, please continue reading and schedule a consultation at the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction in Beverly Hills.

Non-Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation

Vaginal rejuvenation treatments, such as ThermiVa and FemiLift, have grown in popularity among women of all ages due to the many aesthetic and medical benefits they can provide. Over time, many women experience changes in their vaginal structures and tissues, whether due to childbirth, hormones, or other life events.  Radiofrequency-based ThermiVa and CO2 laser-based FemiLift are the top non-surgical treatment options available for the following symptoms:

• Sagging, stretched, or loose skin
• Stress urinary incontinence (urine leaks when laughing, sneezing, or other activities)
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Vaginal dryness or looseness
• Loss of sensation
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Pelvic organ prolapse, such as cystocele, rectocele, or procidentia

While minor, it is crucial to learn the differences between ThermiVa and FemiLift in order to have the most comfortable experience and enjoy the best possible results.

What is ThermiVa®?

ThermiVa treatments use radiofrequency energy waves to gently heat the tissue and muscles of the vagina as well as the inner and outer labia. The treatment is administered with a smooth S-shaped device that can be comfortably positioned to target internal and external tissues, resulting in tighter, firmer skin and muscles. The ThermiVa energy even penetrates to the deeper layers of tissue to stimulate collagen production, increase blood vessel development, and enhance nerve function.

The ThermiVa procedure takes only 30 to 45 minutes and can provide the following benefits after just one session:

• Tighter, slimmer inner and outer labia
• Improved nerve sensitivity
• Tighter vaginal canal
• Improved natural lubrication
• Reduced urinary leakage or stress incontinence
• Better sexual function and experience

For complete results, it is recommended that patients undergo a series of three to four ThermiVa sessions over a period of months. Many women experience the benefits of ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation for an average of nine months, and up to two years in some cases. However, most patients may need to undergo follow-up sessions each year to maintain the amazing results of ThermiVa in the long term.

Best of all, there is absolutely no downtime after a ThermiVa session in Los Angeles, allowing women to return to their everyday activities, and even safely enjoy sex.

What is Femilift®?

FemiLift is a laser treatment that utilizes CO2 laser technology to deliver similar thermal effects as ThermiVa, effectively tightening the tissues and structures of the vagina. The FemiLift procedure is administered with a thin wand that rotates 360 degrees to accurately and fully treat the vaginal canal. However, it is not designed to treat the labia as well as ThermiVa can. Each FemiLift session typically takes no more than 30 minutes and can provide the following benefits:

• Improved vaginal lubrication
• Tighter, firmer internal tissues
• Greater nerve sensitivity
• Better bladder control
• Improved sexual function and sensations
• Reduced pain during intercourse

Unlike facial laser treatments, FemiLift delivers less fractional laser energy in order to prevent peeling or other painful effects. It is not uncommon for patients to experience a few days of discomfort, spotting or vaginal discharge as the surface layers of tissue treated by the FemiLift device slough away to reveal fresh, renewed tissue. Ultimately, the Femilift side effects are minor.

Which Vaginal Treatment Should You Choose?

It is important to note that both ThermiVa and FemiLift are effective, non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures that help reverse the effects of age, childbirth, pregnancy, and hormones on a woman’s body. The results can be truly life-changing. With vaginal rejuvenation, women can finally reclaim confidence, comfort, and control.

When considering if ThermiVa or FemiLift is best for you, contact the skilled and compassionate urologists at the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction to make an informed decision.

Our Los Angeles doctors have extensive experience and insight about both ThermiVa and FemiLift devices and can help you not only choose which vaginal rejuvenation treatment is ideal for your needs and goals, but also ensure that you receive the best care and treatment possible.

Learn more about traditional vaginal rejuvenation at Wikipedia.org.

In a nutshell: ThermiVa® vs. FemiLift®

• Both ThermiVa and Femilift use energy to gently affect the tissues thermally and promote tightening, restructuring, and rejuvenation
• Both treatments act fast and result in very noticeably improved sexual and urinary function as a result of vaginal tightening, improved nerve sensitivity, better lubrication, and tissue reconfiguration
• ThermiVa can be applied to outer genitalia (labia) as well as inside of the vagina but FemiLift is designed for internal use only. ThermiVa promotes collagen and tissue regeneration by utilizing radiofrequency energy, while FemiLift uses low dose CO2 laser energy

Schedule Your Feminine Rejuvenation Appointment in LA

At the Institute for Incontinence and Vaginal Reconstruction, our urology specialists are dedicated to providing the thorough care and expert treatment our patients deserve to feel comfortable in their bodies at any age. Our team has extensive experience and training with the most state-of-the-art treatments available in the U.S. To learn more about ThermiVa and FemiLift, and how these revolutionary devices can restore your natural lubrication, sexual satisfactions, and feminine health, please do not hesitate to schedule a vaginal rejuvenation consultation online or call our Beverly Hills office today.

Next, read The Best Solutions for Female Incontinence

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