Botox injections serve as a therapeutic option to enhance bladder control and manage urgency urinary incontinence (UUI).
What is Botox?
Botox, derived from botulinum toxin, is an injectable substance primarily utilized for treating specific muscular conditions and for cosmetic enhancements in facial aesthetics. In the realm of bladder disorders, Botox is used to induce relaxation of the bladder muscle, thereby increasing its capacity to retain urine and diminishing the likelihood of urinary incontinence. Symptoms associated with involuntary contractions of the detrusor muscle, such as heightened urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence, can be mitigated through this intervention.
Patients grappling with UUI and overactive bladder may find Botox injections beneficial, especially if they have not experienced improvement with conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication. However, it is imperative to consider potential risks associated with bladder Botox, including hematuria, urinary tract infections (present in fewer than 15% of cases), challenges in bladder emptying necessitating self-catheterization (occurring in 10% of cases), and allergic reactions to Botox.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The procedure is typically conducted in a doctor’s office without the need for general anesthesia, and patients are not subjected to any dietary restrictions beforehand. Upon arrival at the medical facility, patients are required to provide a urine sample for infection screening, with rescheduling of the procedure warranted if a urinary tract infection is detected. Using a cystoscope, the physician visualizes the interior of the bladder and administers Botox injections using a thin needle at approximately 10 to 30 sites within the bladder muscle. The procedure, lasting approximately 20 minutes, is generally well-tolerated and not associated with significant discomfort.
Before leaving the doctor’s office, patients will need to urinate to make sure they’re not having any difficulty emptying the bladder. If they’re unable to empty the bladder, they will be given a catheter to help with urination.
The Recovery Process
Following the procedure, women can typically resume their routine activities promptly, including driving themselves home or returning to work. However, immediate relief from UUI symptoms may not be apparent, with several days to two weeks typically required before experiencing reduced episodes of UUI. Patients may encounter transient discomfort such as a stinging or burning sensation when urinating, or blood in the urine, for which they may need over-the-counter or prescription medications. Warm or cool compresses or indulging in warm baths can further alleviate discomfort in the genital area.
Choose UCI Pelvic Health Center for Bladder Botox
Take control of your bladder health with the expertise of UCI Pelvic Health Center. Our specialists offer bladder Botox treatment to alleviate urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) and overactive bladder symptoms. Trust in our dedicated team to guide you through the process, ensuring comfort and personalized care every step of the way.