MID-URETHRAL SLING

Mid-urethral sling procedures are operations designed to help women with stress incontinence. Stress incontinence is leakage of urine with every day activities such as coughing, sneezing or exercise. It is a very common problem that affects 1 in 3 women. Stress incontinence may be improved with pelvic floor exercise and lifestyle modifications, but if these strategies fail then surgery may be recommended for you. The mid-urethral sling is the most offered procedure.

The operation involves placing a sling of polypropylene mesh about 1 cm wide between the middle portion urethra and the skin of the vagina. The urethra is the pipe through which the bladder empties. Normally, muscles and ligaments cost firmly when straining or exercising to prevent leakage. Damage or weakening of these ligaments from childbirth or aging can result in  urine leakage. Placing a sling underneath the urethra improves the support and reduces or stops the leaking.