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Urge Incontinence: Updates in Non-pharmacologic Treatments

  • Urogynecology (S Pulliam and N Kohli, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of review

The aim of this manuscript is to provide an overview of the recent literature on non-pharmacologic therapies for urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), specifically focusing on treatments for adult women who suffer from UUI in the setting of idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome (OAB).

Recent findings

This review describes recent studies examining the efficacy of biofeedback-assisted pelvic muscle therapy, the effect of bariatric surgery on urinary incontinence, alternative approaches for tibial and transcutaneous nerve stimulation, sacral neuromodulation as compared to botulinum toxin type A, and 5-year outcomes of sacral neuromodulation therapy. The evidence supporting acupuncture as an alternative treatment is examined, and experimental therapies including electromagnetic nerve stimulation and fractional vaginal CO2 laser therapy are reviewed. Emerging areas for UUI research including the urinary microbiome, urinary biomarkers, and considerations in refining future treatment guidelines are discussed.

Summary

UUI is a complex disorder that can be improved by a wide variety of therapies. Non-pharmacologic therapies are effective and widely utilized treatment options for those suffering from UUI. As we continue to learn more about this burdensome condition, less invasive and more effective therapies will hopefully become more easily available with lower cost of care.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 3032 Old Clinic Building, CB #7570, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7570, USA

    Alexis A. Dieter

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Alexis A. Dieter declares that she has no conflict of interest.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Urogynecology

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Dieter, A.A. Urge Incontinence: Updates in Non-pharmacologic Treatments. Curr Obstet Gynecol Rep 6, 257–262 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13669-017-0222-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13669-017-0222-2

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