Incontinence: Medical devices for women

The intraurethral device

Intraurethral device looks like a buffer, and it is inserted into the urethra (the tube that allows urine to pass from the bladder to the outside of the body) to prevent leakage of urine. It is better to use the intra-urethral devices in situations where incontinence is predictable as a game of tennis, jogging daily, a movie or a play funny - any activity likely to produce incontinence of urine in the effort. And when you urinate, you simply remove the device.

The pessary

This device is used when your bladder needs to be sustained. It is particularly suitable for women with incontinence after a descent, or prolapse of the bladder. The pessary is a stiff ring that you insert into the vagina. Since the vagina is located below the bladder, the pessary helps to provide support to the bladder, and consequently to prevent leakage of urine. The device is offered in a variety of sizes and shapes. It must usually be adapted to your body by a physician. You can insert and remove it yourself. You can wear all day, but you must clean it regularly.

Most devices are designed to relieve female incontinence. Among the selection shown for male incontinence, there is a penile compression device.

The compression device penile

This device is a clip placed around the penis to compress the urethra. The clamp exerts a pressure that prevents or reduces the leakage of urine. You must remove the device every 2 hours or 3 hours and empty your bladder. The penile compression devices are usually recommended for urinary incontinence on exertion.

Some types of medical devices may be suitable for both men and women.

The catheters

If your incontinence is caused by an inadequate emptying of the bladder, your doctor may suggest a catheter. This is a flexible tube that is inserted into the urethra to empty the bladder. You can use it whenever you need the toilet (it's actually an intermittent catheterization) or you can wear it constantly (such as a Foley catheter). If the catheter is worn constantly, an external pocket that collects the urine is usually attached to a leg. If you must use a catheter, your doctor will recommend a model to suit your size and you will learn how to use it at the right time.