If you leak, dribble, or otherwise unintentionally lose urine with physical activity, you’re probably struggling with stress incontinence. These episodes of leakage can be frustrating and even embarrassing. If you’re looking for a solution to your stress incontinence issues, Dr. Lingenfelter can help by introducing you to a new cutting-edge technology called VotivaⓇ by Inmode.
Before we discuss the specifics about this new treatment, let’s review a few things about urinary incontinence and why you might be struggling.
Urinary incontinence 101
Stress incontinence happens when the pressure in your abdomen increases. Simple movements such as sneezing, coughing, or heavy lifting can cause anything from a dribble to a more substantial leak.
This is a common condition in women that can get worse after childbirth. You’re not alone in your struggles with female urinary incontinence. It’s estimated that 25-45% of all women suffered from urine leakage at least once in the past year. The older you get, the more likely it is that you’ll battle incontinence, and by the time you’re past mid-life, there is a 50% chance you’ll have it..
Radiofrequency explained
Treatments for incontinence have advanced in recent years. Today, we know that radiofrequency technology helps with urinary incontinence, and it’s safe and effective. This technology uses energy to warm up your skin and promote new collagen and elastin formation. These proteins found in your skin help keep it tight, and can help strengthen and tone the tissues responsible for bladder control.
Votiva addresses tissue laxity on the outside and inside of the vagina, which tightens the surrounding structures, including the bladder. This procedure is 100% surgery-free which means that you can go right back to your daily life after the procedure. Most women need a few treatments to get the full benefits of Votiva. Dr. Lingenfelter creates a care plan specific to your needs and lets you know how many treatments you might require.
How is Votiva done?
You’ll lie in a comfortable position and having a Votiva treatment seems much like having a vaginal ultrasound. We take all measures to protect your dignity and keep you covered for modesty throughout the process, which should take less than 60 minutes.
Does it hurt?
This is a popular question, and we’re happy to let you know that the answer is no. A mild anesthetic gel will be placed around the opening of your vagina, so you shouldn’t feel a thing, other than some warmth. If you have extreme vaginal dryness, you might notice a little discomfort when the handheld device is first inserted into your vagina.
After the procedure, you might be a bit sensitive when you wipe after using the bathroom. However, at no time during or after the procedure will you experience pain. You’ll need to abstain from intercourse and avoid hot tubs, pools, and bathtubs for 3 days after the treatment.
The results
You might notice positive effects as early as the day after the first treatment. The skin on the outside of your vagina may look tighter, and your labia may appear smaller. You should also notice having more control over your bladder when you sneeze, cough, or laugh.
We want you to know that you don’t have to struggle with urinary incontinence. Give our office in Princeton, West Virginia, a call or book a consultation online — and get ready to experience nothing but joy the next time you laugh.
