Preface

Part 1:The Basics

Questions 1–6 provide fundamental information about the bladder and

incontinence, including:

• What is the bladder and what does it do?

• What are normal voiding habits?

• What problems can occur with bladder function?

Part 2: Diagnosis of Overactive Bladder

Questions 7–18 discuss the identification of incontinence due to overactive bladder:

• What is overactive bladder?

• What is the natural history of overactive bladder? Is it permanent, can it resolve,

or does it come and go?

• What causes OAB?

Part 3:Treatment of Overactive Bladder

Questions 19–51 describe nonsurgical, minimally invasive, and surgical options for

treatment of overactive bladder:

• What are the options for treating overactive bladder?

• What are pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises)?

• What is neuromodulation/sacral nerve stimulation?

• What is bladder augmentation?

Part 4: Diagnosis and Treatment of Stress

Urinary Incontinence

Questions 52–92 discuss identification of different kinds of SUI and how they are

treated, including:

• What are the different types of SUI, and how are they different?

• What is a urodynamic study?

• What are the surgical options for women with SUI?

• What is an in situ vaginal wall sling?

Part 5: Physical Complications and Social Concerns

of Incontinence

Questions 93–100 describe situations affecting the physical and social well-being of

incontinence patients, such as:

• I’m obese. Am I a candidate for surgery?

• Does natural childbirth damage the muscles for bladder control, and should I ask

my obstetrician to do a cesarean section at my next delivery?

• What is a prolapse?

Appendix

Glossary

Index