Stress Incontinence since birth of 1st child

[Skeptic924]

I have suffered from stress incontinence since the birth of my 1st child 3+ years ago. It has improved but I still have to wear a protective pad. I have tried over active bladder meds, physical therapy, a pessary, etc. The doctor mentioned having a sling put in but I am only 26...how long will it last? Will it even work? Are there any other options? Also, the leakage seems to be worse around and during my menstrual cycle? I had taken Estriol vaginally and it seemed to help. Would a birth control pill work the same? (my husband had a vasectomy so we don't use anything). And just a FYI, I am hypothyroid, narcoleptic, and suffer from depression...obviously. Know of any support groups in Iowa?

[Skeptic924]

I was diagnosed three years ago. I Had the test that I completely empty my bladder & such. I've tried pelvic floor exercises on my own and with a physical therapist - twice. I've already tried Cymbalta (Duloxetine) and other prescribed and herbal medicines. I am done having children so that is why my doctor is suggesting surgery. I was really hoping that maybe there was something that I haven't already tried...but apparently there isn't. Can you at least tell me if there is a connection between  the stress incontinence and my menstrual cycle? It gets worse around this time of the month. Would birth control pills help manage this?

[Dr J Singh]

Hello,
Stress incontinence occurs when there is a leakage of urine when a sudden extra stress or pressure is put on the bladder. The first treatment involves strengthening the muscles of the pelvic floor by doing pelvic floor exercises. Almost six out of ten female stress incontinence cases can be improved or cured via this treatment.Then medicines like Duloxetine can also be prescribed. Surgery is needed in very severe cases and it can affect future pregnancy because any lower abdominal surgery increases chances of adhesion formation and difficulty in conceiving and carrying the baby to term.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.