Stress Incontinence
Sling vs Bulkamid: how to choose
What is the short answer?
Both treat stress leaks in women.
A midurethral sling is a short outpatient surgery that places a thin mesh tape under the urethra.
What else should I know?
It offers lasting results for many women, with a small risk of mesh or voiding problems.
Bulkamid is a gel injected in a short procedure in our surgery centers, with no cuts and a quick recovery.
Results may be a bit less complete, and some women need a second injection.
Your leak severity, health, and preferences guide the choice.
When should I make an appointment?
If you leak when you cough, sneeze, or exercise, schedule a visit to compare both.
Ready to come in?
Many Walton County families visit our Snellville Clinic & Surgery Center (1557 Janmar Rd, Snellville, GA 30078), and Social Circle neighbors are also welcome at our Conyers Clinic (1366 Wellbrook Circle Suite B, Conyers, GA 30012).
How do our urologists approach this?
Our urologists help you weigh a sling against Bulkamid by looking at how much you leak and your overall health. We also ask how you feel about surgery and recovery time. We explain the tradeoffs plainly, including the small risks of mesh and voiding problems with a sling and the chance of needing a second Bulkamid injection.
What happens at a visit?
We’ll go over when and how often you leak, your pregnancies and past surgeries, and the medicines you take. Usually that’s followed by a brief exam and a urine sample, and some women also need a bladder test.
How should I prepare?
Before your visit, write down when you leak and how much it limits you, and bring your list of medicines and past surgeries.
When should I call?
Call us after either procedure if you have trouble emptying, burning or fever, or if the leaks come back.
What do patients often ask?
These are the questions we hear most, each with a short answer.
Which one lasts longer?
A sling offers lasting results for many women, while Bulkamid results may be a bit less complete and sometimes need a second injection.
Is there a video on this?
Dr. Casey McCullough talks about bladder leaks in this Advanced Urology video.
- Watch: Let's Talk about Leaks with Dr. Casey McCullough What the video covers: Dr. Casey McCullough talks about bladder leaks.
Where can I learn more?
Background reading; decisions belong in a visit. All Walton articles