Q: What is a mid-urethral sling and how does it treat stress urinary incontinence?
A: A mid-urethral sling is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI)—a condition where urine leaks during physical activity, coughing, sneezing, or lifting. SUI is often caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles or urethral support, commonly due to childbirth, aging, or prior pelvic surgery.
The sling is a small strip of synthetic mesh placed under the mid-portion of the urethra to provide support and prevent leakage during physical exertion. It acts like a hammock, helping the urethra stay closed when abdominal pressure increases.
Benefits of mid-urethral sling surgery include:
High long-term success rates for treating SUI
Minimally invasive with small incisions
Outpatient procedure with a relatively quick recovery
Improved quality of life and confidence for many patients
Recovery and Considerations: Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days, though heavy lifting and strenuous activity are typically limited for a few weeks. Risks are low but may include urinary retention, mesh exposure, infection, or temporary urgency symptoms.
This procedure is widely considered the gold standard for treating stress urinary incontinence in women when conservative measures (like pelvic floor therapy) are not effective.
