Urethral Sling
If you are a woman in Oklahoma City struggling with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), you are not alone. Millions of women experience bladder leaks with activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. While lifestyle changes and pelvic floor therapy can help, many women need a more effective, lasting solution. One of the most common and successful treatments is a urethral sling procedure.
What Is Stress Urinary Incontinence?
Stress urinary incontinence happens when the muscles and tissues that support the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) weaken. When pressure builds in the abdomen — for example, from coughing or lifting — the urethra may not stay closed, and urine can leak.
What Is a Urethral Sling?
A urethral sling is a small strip of surgical material placed under the urethra to provide support. Think of it as a “hammock” that helps keep the urethra closed during activity. This support prevents accidental leaks when you laugh, sneeze, or move.
The goal of a urethral sling is to restore support and stop stress incontinence.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- Minimally invasive: Most sling surgeries are performed through a tiny vaginal incision as an outpatient procedure (go home the same day).
- Short recovery: Many women return to light activities within a few days, with full recovery in a few weeks.
- High success rate: Urethral slings are one of the most studied procedures in urology, with long-term success for most patients. Greater than 90% of of women are happy with the outcome of their sling surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for a Urethral Sling?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Leak urine with coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise
- Have not improved enough with Kegels or pelvic floor therapy
- Want a long-term solution to SUI
A consultation with a female urology specialist in Oklahoma City can help determine if a sling is right for you.
Benefits of a Urethral Sling
- Proven effectiveness for stress urinary incontinence
- Quick recovery compared to more invasive surgeries
- Improved quality of life and confidence
- Long-lasting results
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, there are potential risks such as bleeding, infection, difficulty urinating, or mesh complications. This mesh has never been a part of any FDA recall. It has been used for this procedure safely for > 15 years. Your urologist will discuss these with you so you can make an informed decision.
Life After Sling Surgery
Most women report dramatic improvements in bladder control and quality of life. Many say they wish they had sought treatment sooner. With proper care and follow-up, urethral slings can offer long-lasting relief from SUI.
Finding Urethral Sling Treatment in Oklahoma City
If you’re looking for a urologist in Oklahoma City who specializes in women’s health, our practice is here to help. We focus exclusively on female patients and provide compassionate, personalized care. Schedule a consultation today to learn if a urethral sling is the right solution for you.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Use of this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. If you have a medical concern, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.