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Managing Urinary and Fecal Incontinence: What You Need to Know - Dr. Sprock Presents

Updated: May 23


Recording of Presentation; Hope for Incontinence: New Treatments and Practical Tips from a Urogynecology Specialist

(Summary of video found below)


Introduction - Keith Weeks (Medtronic):


Good evening, and thank you for joining us. I'm Keith Weeks from Medtronic in Brevard County. It's my pleasure to host this webinar with Dr. Marja Sprock from Central Florida Urogynecology. Dr. Sprock and her team specialize in female pelvic medicine and provide compassionate care for a wide range of urinary, fecal, and gynecologic issues. Their mission is to restore quality of life with advanced treatments and personalized support.


Opening Remarks - Dr. Marja Sprock :


Thank you, Keith. I may not be great with computers, but I know urogynecology. Today’s discussion focuses on common issues like urinary and fecal incontinence, and how we can treat them to help women regain control of their lives.


Common Symptoms and Causes:


Bladder and bowel symptoms are more common than people think. As we age, it's normal to urinate more frequently—what’s normal at age 20 changes by age 80. Medications, hydration habits, and weak pelvic muscles can all contribute.

Factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, hormone changes, and even back surgery can also lead to incontinence and retention. Overactive bladder and urinary retention often get confused, so it's essential to make an accurate diagnosis.


First Steps: Lifestyle and Pelvic Floor Training:


Before we consider advanced treatments, we always start with the basics:

  • Timed voiding (don’t wait until it’s urgent)

  • Strengthening pelvic floor muscles (Kegel exercises)

  • Evaluating medications and supplements that might worsen symptoms

Even slight improvements in these areas can reduce the “have to go now” feeling and unexpected leaks.


Treatments We Offer:


  1. Medications:Newer options are more bladder-specific and have fewer side effects compared to older drugs like oxybutynin, which may contribute to dry mouth, constipation, and even dementia.

  2. Pelvic Floor Exercises:Kegel exercises are effective for both urinary and fecal incontinence when done correctly. You don’t need gadgets—just consistency and proper technique.

  3. Neuromodulation with Medtronic Devices:For patients who have tried medications and pelvic floor therapy without success, sacral nerve stimulation (InterStim by Medtronic) offers a powerful solution for both bladder and bowel control.


The InterStim Procedure;


We begin with a test phase—often called the “test wire”—to see if stimulation improves your symptoms. Most patients experience significant improvement during this short trial. If successful, a permanent implant is placed, which can last 10+ years.

The procedure:

  • Takes ~30–40 minutes

  • Is done under local anesthesia

  • Is minimally invasive

  • Has full MRI compatibility

Most importantly, it works for years, not just months like temporary options such as Botox.


Special Cases: Fecal Incontinence and Retention


Fecal incontinence is under-discussed but highly treatable. We often see success with patients who’ve had radiation, sphincter injuries, or complex childbirth histories.

Urinary retention, especially in patients who’ve had spinal or back surgery, can also be significantly improved using nerve stimulation—avoiding the need for regular self-catheterization.


FAQs

Q: Is InterStim covered by insurance?A: Yes, but requirements vary by condition. Typically, patients must try conservative options first (muscle training, medications, lifestyle).

Q: Can I travel or exercise with the implant?A: Absolutely. The only restriction is deep-sea diving. Travel and airport security are not an issue—you’ll receive a medical device ID card.

Q: Will one implant help both bladder and bowel symptoms?A: Yes. The sacral nerve controls both, so a single implant addresses both issues.



Final Thoughts:


Don’t be shy about seeking help. Urinary and fecal incontinence are incredibly common—and highly treatable. At Central Florida Urogynecology, we specialize in advanced solutions for pelvic floor disorders. Whether you need lifestyle coaching, hormone support, or surgical expertise, we’re here to help.


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