What treatments are available for urge urinary incontinence?
There are several effective treatment options for urge urinary incontinence related to MS. These range from lifestyle modifications to medical procedures, and your healthcare team can help determine which approach works best for you.
Lifestyle and At-Home Show Full Answer
What treatments are available for urge urinary incontinence?
There are several effective treatment options for urge urinary incontinence related to MS. These range from lifestyle modifications to medical procedures, and your healthcare team can help determine which approach works best for you.
Lifestyle and At-Home Strategies:
- Bladder training techniques to help regain control
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Identifying and avoiding bladder irritants
Medications:
- Anticholinergics to help manage bladder contractions and reduce urgency (though they may cause dry mouth)
- Tolterodine (Detrol) and mirabegron (Myrbetriq) are commonly prescribed options
- Baclofen has helped some people with bladder issues
Medical Procedures:
- Botox injections into the bladder wall to relax overactive muscles - benefits typically last up to a year
- Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) once or twice daily to fully empty the bladder
- Nerve stimulation techniques, including tibial nerve stimulation or neuromuscular electrical stimulation
- Physical therapy focused on pelvic floor muscles
- Surgical options ranging from bladder stimulators to more extensive procedures
Many people find success combining multiple approaches. One MyMSTeam member shared that bladder Botox "really changed my life," while others have found relief through self-catheterization or medication.
It's important to work with your healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan, as what works can vary significantly from person to person.
November 20, 2025