Urodynamics

Urodynamics Q & A

What Are Urodynamics?

Urodynamics refers to a series of tests that evaluate how well your urinary system — including your bladder, urethra, and pelvic muscles — holds and releases urine. The urodynamic tests at Monroe OBGYN allow our doctors to get a complete picture of your bladder function to determine the best course of treatment.

Some of the tools we use include:

• Cystometry: Measures how much urine your bladder can hold.
• Electromyography: Evaluates the electrical activity in the nerves and muscles of your pelvic floor.
• Urethral Pressure Profile: Tests the function of your urethra.
• Uroflowmetry: Measures the speed and volume of your urine output.
• Voiding Pressure Study: Examines the pressure in your bladder as you urinate.

What is Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence refers to any condition where you lose control over your bladder. It comes in several forms:

• Stress Incontinence: This occurs when you leak urine due to added pressure on your bladder, such as when you cough, sneeze, or lift something heavy.
• Urge Incontinence: Characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate and an inability to hold it, even if your bladder isn’t full.
• Mixed Incontinence: A combination of both stress and urge incontinence, with symptoms of each type.

What Causes Incontinence?

Incontinence can result from several underlying causes, including:

• Pregnancy
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Menopause
• Childbirth
• Obstructions, such as bladder stones
• Hysterectomy

One of the most common causes of incontinence is menopause, where a decline in estrogen weakens the tissues in your pelvic region, making it harder to support your bladder. Pregnancy and childbirth can also stretch and weaken the pelvic muscles, prolonging symptoms of incontinence.