Solutions for Bladder Problems in Southern California

Bladder problems not only get in the way of your daily activities, they also affect your sexual health and take a toll on your emotional well-being. Many women of all ages struggle with these bladder issues:

At Dignity Health Southern California, we specialize in treating women’s bladder problems, one woman at a time. Our sensitive, caring doctors are ready to have the conversation at four convenient, comfortable locations. Find a Doctor near you online for highly personalized treatment for bladder issues in Southern California.

Symptoms of Bladder Problems

Bladder problem symptoms can vary depending on the type of bladder issue you have and how severe it is. Every woman’s experience is different. However, these signs and symptoms are often reported: 

  • Cloudy urine
  • Frequent urination (more than eight times during the day or more than two times at night)
  • Frequent or sudden urge to urinate
  • Urinary leakage
  • Painful urination
  • Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen
  • Pain during sex

Causes of Bladder Problems

Women tend to have more bladder issues than men. Your risk of having bladder problems may increase due to:

  • Being overweight (especially for incontinence).
  • Medical conditions such as diabetes, which increases the risk of UTI.
  • Pregnancy, if some of the muscles that control the bladder and urethra are stretched out of shape.
  • Childbirth. Vaginal childbirth can weaken pelvic muscles. Episiotomy can also increase the risk of bladder problems.
  • Hormonal changes such as those during menopause.

Treatment for Bladder Problems at Dignity Health Southern California

Treatment and prevention options will depend on your specific issues, lifestyle habits, medical history, and risk factors. Your doctor will talk with you about all of these aspects and partner with you to develop a personalized treatment plan you are comfortable with.

Available treatment options include: 

  • Medication, such as antibiotics to treat and prevent UTI. Other medications decrease the urge to urinate and relax nerves and muscles that affect the bladder.
  • Medical devices. For overactive bladder, special devices deliver electric current to nerves and muscles of the urinary tract. For incontinence, a pessary (a small device inserted into the vagina) may be recommended to support the bladder or urethra.
  • Surgery, such as bladder suspension or incontinence sling surgery.
  • Bladder training to treat incontinence.
  • Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight if you are overweight and maintaining a healthy diet. Your doctor may also suggest avoiding caffeinated drinks, drinking cranberry juice, and drinking plenty of water.

Once you have agreed on a treatment plan, your Dignity Health Southern California doctor will monitor your progress and propose adjustments as needed.  

Dignity Health provides personalized treatment for women’s bladder problems in Southern California.