Other things to consider

Before deciding about surgery, consider these factors:

• Get an accurate diagnosis. Different types of incontinence require different therapies. Your health care provider might refer you to an incontinence specialist (urogynecologist or urologist) for further diagnostic testing.
• Understand that surgery only corrects the problem it's designed to treat. Surgery to treat stress incontinence doesn't treat the sudden, severe urge to urinate (overactive bladder). If you have mixed incontinence — a combination of stress incontinence and overactive bladder — you'll likely need additional treatments.
• Think about your plans for having children. Your doctor might recommend waiting for surgery until you're finished with childbearing. The strain of pregnancy and delivery on your bladder, urethra and supportive tissues might undo the benefits of a surgical fix.