AveryCenter For Obstetrics and GynecologyBladder Dysfunction Program
Adam A. Ofer, M.D.
The Medical Evaluation
Since there are different types, degrees, and combinations of incontinence, every
individual’scondition is different. A careful, accurate diagnosis is the essential step in
successfultreatment. Your evaluation will consist of a medical history and thorough
physical exam. As a further aid in diagnosis, we will ask you to fill in a daily diary of how
many times you pass urine and when you have any significant symptoms. A pelvic exam,
urine culture, and at timesa specialized test called urodynamics testing will be necessary.
Urodynamics Evaluation
At the AveryCenter we have a state of the art urodynamics laboratory for evaluation of
bladder function. This painless exam uses a special computer system to evaluate many
aspects of your bladder’s function, including the strength and timing of bladder, urethral,
and pelvic muscle contractions. The exam lasts approximately fifteen minutes and is
followed immediately with a consultation with Dr. Ofer to discuss the test results and
therapeutic options.
Dr. Ofer specializes in treating female gynecological disorders, including overactive
bladder and incontinence, through medical and minimally invasive surgical
techniques.
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence - the uncontrolled loss of urine - is more than just a physical problem.
It can have emotional consequences, too. Whether you leak only a few drops when you
laugh or cough, dribble constantly, or your entire bladder empties without warning,
incontinence can be so embarrassing it interferes with living a normal, full life. Fortunately,
today something can be done about it.
Incontinence is Common
If you have trouble controlling your bladder, you may feel alone. Nothing could be further from the truth. Loss of bladder control is a common problem. Incontinence can leave you exhausted, robbed of a good night's sleep; or make travel uncomfortable or troublesome; or keep the benefits of physical activity out of reach. Despite these frustrations and limitations, only 1 out of 12 people with incontinence seek help, often because of embarrassment, or because they don't realize that help is available.
Incontinence is Treatable
The successful treatment of incontinence begins with an accurate diagnosis. Treatment
options include pelvic muscle exercises, medication, and surgery. With your participation,
incontinence can be treated, and in many cases cured.
Types of Incontinence
You may not realize it, but there are different types of incontinence. You may have stress
incontinence, urge incontinence, or overflow incontinence. Some people have several types
of incontinence coexisting. Although all people with incontinence experience a loss of
bladder control, each type of incontinence has its own pattern of signs and symptoms. You
will be able to identify your own particular type by comparing these patterns:
People with Stress Incontinence may...
- Leak when they cough, laugh, or sneeze.
- Go to the bathroom more frequently in order to avoid accidents.
- Avoid exercise because they are afraid this will cause leaks.
- Sleep through the night, but leak upon getting up from bed in the morning.
- Sometimes be incontinent when they get up from a chair.
People with Urge Incontinence may...
- Leak if they don't get to the bathroom immediately.
- Get up frequently during the night to urinate.
- Go to the bathroom at least every two hours.
- Wet the bed at night.
- Feel they have a weak bladder and that each drink seems to cause urination out of proportion to the amount they actually drink.
People with Overflow Incontinence may...
- Get up frequently during the night to urinate.
- Take a long time to urinate and have a weak, dribbling stream with no force.
- Urinate a small amount and not feel completely empty afterwards.
- Dribble urine throughout the day.
- Feel the urge to urinate, but sometimes can't.
Please call for a consultation:
AveryCenter for
Obstetrics & Gynecology
(203) 227-5125
*Prior to your appointment, it is helpful to fill out a 2-day bladder diary. Roughly estimate how much you are drinking, when you are drinking and your symptoms.