3 Ways Thermal Therapy Treats Incontinence
Thermal therapy has been used as a method of rejuvenating skin and tissues for decades. This treatment uses radiofrequency to apply heat to a targeted area, a process that tightens the skin or tissue. While it's been used primarily for cosmetic purposes on the face and neck, it's increasingly being used for more intimate procedures, including vaginal rejuvenation. Its success in this area has led to it being used for therapeutic purposes. Here's how it works to treat incontinence in women.
1. It makes tissue denser.
Thermal therapies such as Thermiva work by making the tissues contract and therefore become denser. They also stimulate collagen production, which results in thicker skin and tissue. When the radiofrequency wand is used intra-vaginally, the treatment can be directed to the ligaments of the pelvic floor, which support the urethra and bladder. The denser tissue provides more support for the urinary tract and counteracts the thinning that results from aging, menopause or hormonal problems, making leakage less likely.
2. It makes muscles stronger.
Weak urethral muscles are one of the primary causes of stress incontinence. This is usually a result of being stretched by pregnancy and childbirth, but can also result from obesity, vigorous exercise or other trauma. Some women simply lose urethral muscle tone as they age. When a full bladder presses down on the urethra and the muscles surrounding the urethra are not taut and toned, it's difficult for them to contract and to control the flow of urine. This effect is even more pronounced when the patient coughs, sneezes or performs any other motion that places the abdominal and pelvic muscles under pressure.
Thermiva stimulates and tones all the vaginal muscles, including those used to control urine flow. While many patients appreciate the aesthetic effects of increased muscle tone, it also restores control over involuntary leakage or an overactive bladder.
3. It enhances sensation.
Another important effect of thermal therapy is the increased blood flow to the area to which it is applied. The enhanced blood flow increases nerve sensitivity and improves sensation. When the bladder is full and presses on the rejuvenated nerves, patients can feel it sooner and more intensely, reducing the chance that the bladder will leak. They will feel the natural response to a full bladder, which does not occur when the tissues and nerves are damaged.
The tightening, toning and sensation-enhancing effects of thermal therapy have great promise for treating incontinence in women. In addition to being less invasive than surgery, it has few known side effects, no discomfort and no lengthy recovery period. If you want to avoid surgery, drugs or devices, ask your doctor if you are a candidate for Thermiva therapy for incontinence. Contact a business, such as Caring For Women, for more information.