The first step is a complete exam, which should include discussion of your medical and sexual history and a physical exam that focuses on your reproductive organs, urinary tract, and nervous system. Your doctor will measure your bladder capacity and residual urine for evidence of poorly functioning bladder muscles. To do this, you will drink plenty of fluids and urinate into a measuring pan, after which the doctor will measure any urine remaining in the bladder. Urine is tested for evidence of infection, urinary stones, or other contributing causes. A thin tube with a tiny camera is inserted in the urethra and used to see the urethra and bladder.
Various techniques measure pressure in the bladder and the flow of urine.
Because you may be uncomfortable during some of the tests, such as cystoscopy, you may be given a medication to relax you. Once your doctor has this information, he or she may refer you to a urologist, who specializes in bladder control problems. Medical treatment Self care For a list of continence specialists in your area, contact the National Association for Continence. Shop O2 . All Rights Reserved.