Stress Incontinence Biofeedback

Biofeedback is used mainly in stress urinary incontinence to help patients become more aware of their bladder and pelvic muscles. There are multiple methods providing visual or auditory feedback or both. The success of biofeedback methods depends on the knowledge and skill of the health care provider and on the motivation of the patient. Most biofeedback protocols measure and reinforce pelvic muscle contractions; some also provide information on abdominal and detrusor contractions. This method may improve incontinence symptoms by up to 80-90%, especially if used in conjunction with other behavioral techniques.

This technique has also been used with some success in urge incontinence to delay time between voidings along with other treatments aimed at reducing hyperactivity of the detrusor muscle. Its main goal is to try to promote relaxation of this muscle so voiding frequency is reduced and bladder capacity is increased.