Nerve Stimulation in London
Gentle stimulation of the nerves involved in bladder control can help reduce the urgency and frequency associated with an overactive bladder. It offers a low-impact, drug-free option for people who would prefer to avoid medication or have not found it suitable.
How it works
Nerve stimulation can help manage an overactive bladder in three ways.
Modulates nerve activity
Gentle stimulation influences the messages between the bladder and brain that contribute to urgency.
Reduces urgency and frequency
Over a course of treatment, some people experience less frequent or less intense urges to pass urine.
Drug-free and low impact
PTNS is a drug-free treatment delivered through short sessions and is generally well tolerated.
Who nerve stimulation may suit
Nerve stimulation may be considered for people who:
- Have overactive bladder symptoms, including urgency and frequency
- Would prefer to avoid medication or have not tolerated it
- Are looking for a low-impact, drug-free option
- Have been assessed as suitable by a consultant urologist
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will assess your symptoms and confirm whether overactive bladder is the likely cause. They will then discuss whether nerve stimulation may be an appropriate option. - A course of sessions
The most commonly used treatment, PTNS, is delivered through short, regular sessions using a very fine needle near the ankle. - Review and next steps
Your consultant will review how your symptoms respond during the course of treatment and discuss whether ongoing sessions or another treatment option may be appropriate.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for nerve stimulation in London?
Drug-free option
A treatment option for people who would rather avoid medication or have not found it suitable.
Low-impact treatment
PTNS is delivered through short appointments and is generally straightforward to tolerate.
Targets bladder control signals
Treatment focuses on the nerve signals that can contribute to an overactive bladder, rather than simply managing symptoms.
Part of a stepped approach
Nerve stimulation can sit between conservative measures and more involved treatment, broadening the options available to you.
Frequently asked questions
Does nerve stimulation hurt?
PTNS uses a very fine needle near the ankle to deliver mild stimulation. Most people tolerate it well, although experiences vary. Your consultant will explain what to expect before treatment begins.
How many sessions will I need?
Nerve stimulation is usually provided as a course of short, regular sessions rather than a one-off treatment. Your consultant will recommend a schedule based on your symptoms and response to treatment.
Is there a more involved treatment option?
Yes. For more persistent symptoms, a form of neuromodulation using an implanted device may be considered. Your consultant will discuss this only if it is appropriate for you.
When is nerve stimulation used?
It may be considered for overactive bladder, particularly if you prefer a drug-free approach, cannot tolerate medication or have not had enough improvement with other treatment options.
Explore a drug-free option for overactive bladder
If urgency and frequency are affecting your daily life, nerve stimulation may be an option to discuss. Submit an enquiry or contact our team in confidence.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
