Diagnosis
The first step is to determine which type of urinary incontinence you may have. The type of incontinence will determine which course of treatment we can off you.
To begin, we will collect a thorough history and physical exam. The history and exam may give our doctor indicators or clues as to what incontinence you may be experiencing.
Next, your doctor may want to do on or all of the following to assist in diagnosis:
- Urinalysis. Urine samples help your doctor look for signs of infection, blood or other abnormalities that could be causing your symptoms.
- BLADDER DIARY. A bladder diary allows you to record how much you drink, when you urinate, the amount of urine voided, and whether or not you had any urges to urinate or the number of incontinence episodes you have experienced.
- Post-void residual measurement. You’re will urinate into a container that measures output. Then, by inserting a urinary catheter into your bladder, your doctor is able to measure the amount of urine leftover in your bladder. If a large amount of urine remains in your bladder, this could indicate an obstruction in your urinary tract or a problem with your bladder nerves or muscles.
Special testing
If further information is needed, your doctor may recommend: