Urethral Bulking Injections in London
Urethral bulking injections are a minimally invasive treatment for stress urinary incontinence. They work by adding support around the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, to help reduce leakage when you cough, laugh, exercise or lift.
For suitable people, this can be a day-case option with a shorter recovery than more extensive surgery.
What are urethral bulking injections?
Urethral bulking is a treatment for stress urinary incontinence. Stress incontinence is leakage caused by pressure on the bladder, such as when coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising or lifting.
During the procedure, a soft bulking material is injected into the wall of the urethra. This provides additional support and can help the urethra remain closed more effectively when pressure increases.
Bulking injections may be considered if pelvic floor rehabilitation has not provided enough improvement, particularly for people who would prefer to avoid surgery or are not suited to a more extensive procedure.
The treatment is usually carried out as a day case. It is less invasive than sling surgery and recovery is generally quicker. However, the benefits may not last as long as surgical treatment and some people may need repeat injections over time.
Your consultant will explain how bulking injections compare with other options for stress incontinence, including the potential benefits, limitations and risks.
How it works
Bulking injections aim to reduce stress leakage by improving support around the urethra.
Adds support
A soft material is injected into the urethral wall to help the urethra close more effectively during activities that put pressure on the bladder.
May reduce leakage
With additional support around the urethra, leakage caused by coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercise may improve.
Minimally invasive treatment
The procedure is usually carried out as a day case and does not involve major surgery.
Who urethral bulking agents may suit
Urethral bulking injections may be considered for people who:
- Have stress urinary incontinence
- Have not had enough improvement with pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Would prefer to avoid a more extensive surgical procedure
- Are not suited to sling surgery
- Would value a minimally invasive, day-case treatment option
- Have been assessed as suitable by a consultant
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will confirm the type of urinary incontinence you have and discuss whether urethral bulking injections may be appropriate for your symptoms. - The procedure
The bulking material is injected around the urethra during a short procedure. Your consultant will explain any preparation required, how the procedure is performed and the anaesthetic options available. - Recovery and review
Recovery is usually quicker than after more extensive surgery. Your consultant will provide individual advice about returning to normal activities, review how you are getting on and discuss whether repeat treatment may be needed.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for urethral bulking agents in London?
Minimally invasive approach
Urethral bulking injections can provide an alternative to more extensive surgery for suitable people with stress incontinence.
Day-case treatment
The procedure is usually carried out without an overnight stay, with a shorter recovery period than surgical procedures.
Clear discussion of the trade-offs
Your consultant will explain how likely benefits, recovery considerations and the possibility of repeat treatment compare with other options.
Consultant-led care in London
You will be assessed by a consultant urologist at The Forbury Clinic, 45 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9JF.
Frequently asked questions
How do bulking injections compare with surgery?
Bulking injections are less invasive than sling surgery and usually involve a quicker recovery. However, the effect may be less durable and repeat treatment may be needed. Your consultant will help you compare the options.
Is it a day-case procedure?
Urethral bulking injections are usually performed as a day case. Your consultant will explain what applies to your individual circumstances.
Can urethral bulking injections be repeated?
Yes. The effect can reduce over time, and repeat injections may be considered where appropriate following review with your consultant.
Who are bulking injections suitable for?
They may be an option for people with stress urinary incontinence who have not had enough improvement with conservative treatment and would prefer to avoid, or are not suited to, more extensive surgery.
Will I need a catheter after treatment?
Some people may need a catheter for a short time if they find it difficult to pass urine after the procedure. Your consultant will explain this risk and what support would be available if needed.
A minimally invasive option for stress leakage
If pelvic floor rehabilitation has not provided enough improvement, urethral bulking injections may be an option worth discussing. Our consultant urologists can assess your symptoms and explain the appropriate next steps.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
