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Bladder Problems Q & A
What types of bladder problems affect women?
Men and women can both experience bladder issues, but they’re more common in women. Some of the most common bladder problems are:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
UTIs affect any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder. Your bladder’s role is to store urine, but when you have a UTI, bladder inflammation can cause problems like:
- More frequent urination
- Powerful urges to urinate
- Painful urination
- Burning during urination
- Lower abdomen, back, or side cramping
- Discolored urine
- Odorous urine
A bladder infection can spread to the kidneys and become quite serious.
Interstitial cystitis
Interstitial cystitis, sometimes called bladder pain syndrome, is a chronic bladder problem that occurs when the bladder wall grows inflamed. It may eventually lead to scarring and bladder stiffening.
This condition causes a sensation of pelvic pressure and pain. While interstitial cystitis isn’t an infection, it can cause symptoms similar to UTIs like increased frequency of urination. Some people with interstitial cystitis may urinate up to 60 times throughout the day and night.
Overactive bladder
Overactive bladder (OAB) happens when the bladder contracts too often. It causes sudden urges to urinate, leaving you little time to make it to the bathroom. Some, but not all, people who have OAB experience bladder leaks (urgency incontinence).
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence occurs when your bladder is suddenly under pressure, which causes accidental urine loss. Many women develop stress incontinence after having a baby, as this weakens the muscles that help control urine release. Due to those weak muscles, urine can leak when you cough, sneeze, or lift something heavy.
What treatments are available for bladder problems?
South Valley Women's Health Care starts with a thoughtful and careful evaluation of your symptoms. Your provider may recommend tests, like UTI testing or other labs. Or, you might need an imaging test or minor office procedure so your provider can evaluate your urinary tract in more detail.
Based on your test results, you’ll start a custom-made treatment plan. Many women with bladder problems improve with medication, pelvic floor therapy, and other noninvasive treatments.
Having a bladder problem doesn’t mean you need to suffer. South Valley Women’s Health Care offers comprehensive bladder help in one place, so call the office or book your evaluation online now.