If you experience bladder leaks when you run, jump, sneeze or even laugh, you’re not alone. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition that affects millions of women, making daily activities unpredictable and frustrating. You may have heard about bladder sling surgery as a potential solution - but is it truly a permanent fix for bladder leaks?
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ What bladder sling surgery is
✅ How the procedure works
✅ Pros, cons, and recovery time
✅ Alternative treatments to consider
Let’s dive in!
What Is Bladder Sling Surgery?
Bladder sling surgery, also called a midurethral sling procedure, is a minimally invasive surgery designed to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI). SUI occurs when physical activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or lifting heavy objects put pressure on the bladder, leading to involuntary urine leaks.
According to Attn: Grace Medical Director and OB-GYN Dr. Barbara Frank, “The nice thing about these procedures is that they are quick, often outpatient surgeries, with manageable recovery time.”
How Does Bladder Sling Surgery Work?
During the procedure, a surgeon places a supportive sling under the urethra to keep it closed when pressure is applied to the bladder. The sling acts like a hammock, providing support and reducing leakage.
Bladder Sling Surgery: Key Details
Incision Locations: groin, vagina, or lower abdomen
Sling Material Options:
Synthetic mesh
Tissue from your own abdominal wall or thigh
Recovery Time: Most women return to normal activities within 2-6 weeks
Potential Risks: Pain, infection, difficulty urinating, mesh complications, or injury to nearby organs
Is Bladder Sling Surgery Safe? Understanding the Risks
Surgical procedures always have risks, and bladder sling surgery is no exception. One concern often raised is the use of mesh materials. While mesh slings can be highly effective, they’ve also been associated with complications in some cases.
Dr. Frank advises, “There are risks to any surgical procedure, and ‘mesh’ gets a lot of buzz online. Be sure to discuss your options with your surgeon, including personal risk factors and their success rates with the procedure.”
Who Is a Good Candidate for Bladder Sling Surgery?
If stress urinary incontinence significantly impacts your quality of life, bladder sling surgery may be an option. However, your doctor will likely first recommend nonsurgical treatments, such as:
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Pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen bladder-supporting muscles
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Weight loss if excess weight contributes to SUI
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Bladder retraining, which is helpful if overactive bladder is also a factor
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Using a pessary, a vaginal device that supports the pelvic organs
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And other options such as medications, electrical stimulation, or Botox injections
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What to Expect If You Move Forward with Surgery
If your doctor refers you to a urologist or urogynecologist, they will conduct a series of bladder function tests to determine:
✅ If a bladder sling is the best treatment option for you
✅ Which sling technique would be most effective
While bladder sling surgery isn’t for everyone, it has helped many women regain bladder control when pelvic floor therapy and other treatments weren’t enough.
Final Thoughts: Is Bladder Sling Surgery Right for You?
If stress urinary incontinence is interfering with your daily life, bladder sling surgery may be worth exploring. However, it’s essential to consider all treatment options and consult with a specialist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
And in the meantime? Attn: Grace has you covered with discreet, comfortable incontinence products designed for real life. Shop our collection here.