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I have urge urinary incontinence

Surgery for urge urinary incontinence

Surgery may be considered for urge urinary incontinence if other treatments haven’t helped. It aims to improve bladder control and reduce sudden leaks.

Related topics for further reading

Living with urinary incontinence

Questions to ask your doctor about botulinum toxin injections

Asking questions can help you understand the treatment better, so you can decide with your doctor if it is right for you.

  • Is botulinum toxin the right treatment for me?
  • How do the injections help with urinary incontinence?
  • What side effects should I watch out for?
  • How long will the treatment work before I need more injections?
  • Are there any risks I should know about?
  • How many injections will I need, and how often?
  • What should I do before the procedure?
  • Will the injections hurt, and what kind of numbing will be used?
  • Are there other treatment options for my condition?
  • How soon will I see results after the injections?

Questions to ask your doctor about cystoplasty

Asking questions can help you understand the surgery better, so you can decide with your doctor if it is right for you.

  • Is cystoplasty the right choice for me?
  • How will this surgery help with my urinary incontinence?
  • What risks or problems can come with this surgery?
  • How long does the surgery take, and how long will it take to recover?
  • Will I need to use a catheter after the surgery?
  • How will my bladder work after the surgery?
  • Are there other treatment options I should think about?
  • What do I need to do to get ready for the surgery?
  • What kind of anaesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  • What can I expect while I recover?
  • How long will it take to feel better after the surgery?
  • Will I need more treatments later on?

Questions to ask your doctor about urinary diversions

Asking questions can help you understand the surgery better, so you can decide with your doctor if it is right for you.

  • Do I really need urinary diversion, or are there other options?
  • What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?
  • How will this surgery change my daily life?
  • What type of surgery is best for me?
  • How is the surgery done, and how long does it take?
  • How long will I need to stay in the hospital?
  • How long will it take to recover?
  • How will I go to the bathroom after surgery?
  • Will I need to use a urine bag or a catheter forever?
  • How do I take care of a stoma or a new bladder?
  • Can I still work, travel, and exercise?
  • What problems could happen after surgery?
  • What help can I get to make this change easier?

This chapter contains general information about surgical treatments for urge urinary incontinence. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: May 2025.

Other possible treatments

Drug treatment for urge urinary incontinenceElectrical stimulation for urge urinary incontinenceSurgery for urge urinary incontinence

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