A Minimally Invasive Option to Help Control Urine Leakage
Urethral bulking is a quick, outpatient procedure designed to reduce stress urinary incontinence (SUI)—urine leakage caused by pressure from activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise. It involves injecting a safe bulking agent around the urethra to help it close more effectively and minimize urine leakage.
⚕️ Specialized Care for Women
At Fore River Urology, you’ll be evaluated and treated by a team that includes a fellowship-trained urogynecology and female pelvic reconstructive medicine specialist. This ensures that every treatment—including urethral bulking—is tailored to your anatomy, lifestyle, and long-term goals, especially if you’re managing post-childbirth or postmenopausal incontinence.
Who Is It For?
Urethral bulking is an excellent option for:
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Women with stress incontinence due to pelvic floor weakness, childbirth, or menopause
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Men with mild urinary leakage after prostate surgery
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Patients who prefer a non-surgical, minimally invasive approach
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Individuals not candidates for sling or artificial sphincter surgery
How Urethral Bulking Works
When the muscles around the urethra (the urinary valve) are too weak to fully close, urine may leak with physical activity. Bulking agents are injected into the tissue around the urethra to support closure and improve resistance to pressure.
Think of it as reinforcing the seal around a leaky valve—giving your urethra the support it needs to function better.
What to Expect During the Procedure
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Setting: Office or outpatient surgical center
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Duration: 15–30 minutes
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Anesthesia: Local anesthesia only—no incisions
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Process: A thin scope (cystoscope) is used to inject the bulking material through the urethra
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Recovery: Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activity within 24–48 hours
Aftercare Tips:
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Expect mild burning or urgency temporarily
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Drink fluids and rest for a day or two
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Avoid heavy lifting or intercourse for 1–2 days
✅ Benefits of Urethral Bulking
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Minimally invasive: no cutting, no stitches
- Repeatable if needed
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No general anesthesia required
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Quick recovery
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Often combined with pelvic floor therapy for better results
⚠️ Risks and Side Effects
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Temporary burning, urgency, or mild bleeding
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Urinary retention (difficulty emptying)
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Urinary tract infection
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Rare allergic reaction to the material
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May require repeat injections over time for sustained benefit
Success Rates and Duration of Effect
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70–80% of patients experience meaningful symptom improvement
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30–40% may achieve complete continence, especially after repeat injections
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Results can last 6 months to several years, depending on the bulking agent and individual anatomy
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Retreatment is common and safe
Types of Bulking Agents Used
All approved agents are safe, well-studied, and biocompatible:
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Bulkamid® – soft, water-based gel (long-lasting, well-tolerated)
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Coaptite® – calcium-based microspheres
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Macroplastique® – silicone elastomer
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Durasphere® – carbon-coated beads in a gel suspension
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will this completely stop my incontinence?
It may significantly reduce leakage, but not everyone becomes fully dry. Repeat treatments may enhance the effect.
Does it hurt?
The procedure is well-tolerated. Most report mild pressure or stinging, with little discomfort after.
Can I still do pelvic floor therapy?
Yes, and it’s encouraged. Combining bulking with Kegel exercises often improves long-term outcomes.
Follow-Up and When to Call Us
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Routine follow-up is scheduled within a few weeks
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Call us if you have:
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Fever or signs of infection
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Trouble emptying your bladder
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Worsening leakage or discomfort
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Expert Care, Close to Home
At Fore River Urology, you’ll receive care from experienced specialists—including a fellowship-trained urogynecologist—who are dedicated to helping you regain confidence and control. Whether you’re looking for a nonsurgical option or exploring all treatments for stress incontinence, we’re here to help.
Call 207-518-6600 or request an appointment online to learn if urethral bulking is right for you.
