Clinical Review & Disclaimer
- Verified Content: Approved by the Women’s Health Clinic Clinical Team.
- Educational Use: This is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
- Clinical Assessment: Individual suitability is determined by a clinician; results may vary.
- MEDICAL EMERGENCY: If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
About the Author
Urinary Incontinence Treatment UK – Non-Surgical Solutions for Stress Urinary Incontinence
Vaginal Laser (Nu-V) & Radiofrequency Options
Urinary incontinence is involuntary leakage of urine. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the most common type, causes leaks with coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise. UK pathways typically start with supervised pelvic floor muscle training and bladder retraining, and in selected cases may include clinic-based options such as vaginal laser (Nu-V) or radiofrequency (RF).
If you leak urine when you cough, laugh, sneeze, run, or lift—please know this: it’s common, it’s real, and it’s not something you have to “just live with.” Because “incontinence” isn’t one condition, we start by identifying your pattern (stress, urgency/overactive bladder, or mixed) and then discuss the most appropriate pathway for you.
Why Women Choose Our Clinic
Practitioner-Led Care
Delivered by Dr Farzana Khan.
Medical Oversight
Safety & clinical governance.
Treatment at a Glance
Condition
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Method
Non-surgical laser (Nu-V) or RF
Duration
15–30 minute sessions
Recovery
Minimal downtime / Same-day activity
Evidence-Informed
NICE-aligned counselling
Personalised Assessment with Our GP-Led Team
Every journey begins with understanding. Your consultation helps us confirm your symptom pattern and discuss pelvic floor training, bladder retraining, lifestyle support, and selected non-surgical options where appropriate.
Book Specialist AssessmentWhat Is Urinary Incontinence? (It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All)
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. It’s common—and many women delay seeking help due to embarrassment or assuming it’s “normal.” Clinically, incontinence is classified by symptom patterns and triggers, which helps guide the safest and most effective treatment pathway.
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Most CommonLeakage during physical exertion when bladder pressure exceeds urethral closure pressure.
- Coughing / sneezing
- Laughing
- Running / lifting
Urgency Incontinence
OveractiveLeakage with a sudden, compelling urge to pass urine that is difficult to defer.
- Sudden urgency
- Frequent urination
- Waking at night (nocturia)
Mixed Incontinence
CombinationA combination of stress and urgency symptoms. Treatment often focuses on the most dominant symptom pattern first.
*Treatment is individual and depends on the dominant symptom pattern.
Why Bladder Leakage Happens
Bladder control depends on pelvic floor support, tissue quality, muscle coordination, nerve function, and pressure management. Changes in any part of this system can contribute to leakage—and identifying which factors matter most for you guides treatment selection.
Ready to talk through your options?
Your symptoms, triggers, and medical history matter. A confidential consultation helps confirm your pattern and discuss conservative care first, plus selected clinic options where appropriate.
Book AssessmentMedical note: Classification follows International Continence Society principles. Diagnosis requires clinical assessment. Educational information only. Results vary and no treatment is guaranteed.
Is This Treatment Right For You?
Non-surgical options may be discussed for women with stress-dominant leakage who want clinician-led care and a personalised plan. We always start with an assessment and talk through first-line conservative care (as per UK guidance) before considering clinic-based interventions.
Stress-pattern leakage
Leakage with coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercise, or lifting.
Mild to moderate symptoms
Symptoms affecting confidence and daily life, but not severe or sudden complete loss of control.
Postpartum (6+ months)
Persistent leakage beyond the early recovery period after childbirth, despite self-care efforts.
Perimenopause or menopause
New or worsening leaks alongside tissue and hormonal changes that may affect continence mechanisms.
Prefer to avoid or delay surgery
Looking for non-surgical options with minimal disruption, with realistic expectations discussed upfront.
Extra support alongside physiotherapy
Completed (or currently doing) pelvic floor training and want additional support where appropriate.
A Pathway Matched to Your Pattern
Stress, urgency, and mixed incontinence can look similar day-to-day—but the triggers matter. Your assessment helps us confirm what’s driving your symptoms and discuss the safest, most appropriate treatment route.
Book Free ConsultationWhy Consider Non-Surgical Laser or RF for Stress Incontinence?
If stress-pattern leakage is affecting your life, the goal is to match treatment to the underlying drivers—pelvic floor support, tissue quality, and pressure management. For selected women, non-surgical clinic options may be discussed alongside first-line conservative care, with clear counselling on benefits, limits, and evidence.
Where do laser & RF fit in a NICE-responsible pathway?
In UK care, conservative management is typically first-line. For stress or mixed symptoms, this usually includes a supervised pelvic floor muscle training programme (often at least 3 months). For urgency-dominant symptoms, bladder training is commonly prioritised (often for at least 6 weeks), alongside lifestyle support.
Vaginal laser or RF may be discussed for carefully selected women—most often with mild-to-moderate stress-pattern leakage—especially if conservative measures have not provided enough improvement or you want to avoid or delay surgery.
Laser (Nu-V) vs RF: what’s the difference?
Vaginal laser (Nu-V): A smooth medical probe is used to deliver controlled laser energy in a structured pattern. Many women describe warmth or mild discomfort. A course is commonly discussed as multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart, with a short pelvic rest period afterwards.
Radiofrequency (RF): RF gently warms deeper tissue layers without breaking the surface. It is often described as comfortable, with minimal downtime and brief aftercare guidance.
What does the evidence say (and what we discuss openly)?
We’ll always talk through what the evidence does and doesn’t show, so expectations are realistic. In our consultations, we also discuss national guidance and the current limitations around long-term safety and effectiveness for some energy-based treatments in SUI.
Your symptoms, medical history, and exam findings determine whether these options are appropriate—and results vary.
What does downtime and aftercare usually involve?
Aftercare is method-specific and always confirmed during your appointment.
- Laser: a short pelvic rest period is commonly advised (for example, avoiding intercourse, tampons, swimming, or vigorous exercise for several days).
- RF: many women return to normal activities the same day, with brief short-term precautions as advised by your clinician.
Clinically Governed
CQC-regulated clinics with clinician-led consent and aftercare.
Non-surgical option (selected cases)
May be considered for mild-to-moderate stress-pattern symptoms after assessment, especially alongside pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Minimal disruption
Treatments are typically short appointments, with aftercare guidance tailored to the method used.
Targets tissue response
These technologies aim to create a controlled tissue response that may support continence mechanisms in selected women.
Personalised counselling
We discuss conservative care, clinic options, and when GP/urology review is important—so you can decide with clarity.
Explore Which Option May Suit You
Book a confidential consultation to identify your pattern and talk through pelvic floor training, bladder training, lifestyle support, and selected non-surgical options where appropriate.
Book Free Consultation Pricing for Non-Surgical Urinary Incontinence Treatment
Nu-V Laser Course (3 Sessions)
Save £300 vs single sessions. Typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
laser sessions
- Clinician-led treatment by Dr Farzana Khan
- All consumables & medical supplies included
- Aftercare guidance + follow-up assessment
Price List
RF protocols and final pricing are confirmed after assessment. Payment plans may be available—ask during your consultation.
What’s Included in Treatment Fees
Initial clinical consultation and assessment, treatment delivered by Dr Farzana Khan, all consumables and medical supplies, detailed aftercare guidance, follow-up assessment, plus ongoing support and emergency contact.
Included
Get Exact PricingSafety, Contraindications & When to Seek Medical Review
Before any clinic-based treatment, we screen for infections, contraindications, and symptoms that need GP assessment first. Your plan is clinician-led and tailored to your history and findings.
Contraindications (Treatment May Not Be Suitable)
Suitability is confirmed during your consultation. If any of the below apply, treatment may be delayed or not recommended.
- Pregnancy or trying to conceive: Treatment is not recommended during pregnancy and may be postponed if you are actively trying to conceive.
- Active urinary or vaginal infection: Active UTI or vaginal infection should be treated and resolved before any elective procedure.
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding: Any unexplained vaginal bleeding requires medical assessment before treatment.
- Recent pelvic radiation / complex pelvic care: Current or recent pelvic radiation therapy (within 12 months) needs clinician review and may be a contraindication.
When You Should See Your GP First (Important)
If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical review before considering elective treatments for incontinence.
Not sure what your symptoms mean?
Book a confidential consultation. We’ll confirm your symptom pattern, screen for red flags and contraindications, and discuss conservative care first (supervised pelvic floor training and bladder retraining). If a GP or specialist review is needed, we’ll tell you clearly.
Disclaimer: Educational information only. Not a substitute for medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalised advice. All treatments carry risks and results vary. Seek urgent medical review for blood in urine, fever with urinary symptoms, severe or new pelvic pain, new neurological symptoms (numbness/weakness/saddle numbness), difficulty emptying your bladder, sudden onset of severe incontinence, or continuous dribbling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about urinary incontinence, first-line conservative care, and selected non-surgical laser/RF options discussed in clinic.
How do I know if I have stress or urge incontinence?
Why do I leak urine when I laugh or cough?
Is urinary incontinence a normal part of aging or having babies?
How common is urinary incontinence in women?
What's the best treatment for stress incontinence in the UK?
Can stress incontinence be cured without surgery?
Will you still recommend pelvic floor training and bladder training?
Do I need to try pelvic floor exercises before considering laser or RF?
How long does it take for pelvic floor exercises to work?
How many treatment sessions will I need?
Does laser or RF treatment hurt?
What's the downtime after treatment?
When will I see results?
Will my results be permanent?
What about maintenance treatments?
What does NICE say about vaginal laser for stress incontinence?
Are these treatments safe?
What are the risks and side effects?
Is this better than surgery?
What if I'm not suitable for laser or RF treatment?
Can I have treatment if I have a coil (IUD)?
Can I have treatment during menopause?
Can I have treatment if I plan to have more children?
Is this available on the NHS?
Do you offer payment plans?
How long is each appointment?
Can my partner attend appointments with me?
What if I have questions after treatment?
Want a personalised plan?
Book a confidential consultation to confirm your symptom pattern and discuss your next steps.
Book Free ConsultationMore About Urinary Incontinence Treatment
Myths & facts about urinary incontinence
Misconceptions are one reason many women delay getting help. Here are common myths—and what the evidence-based view looks like.
-
Myth 1: "Urinary incontinence is a normal part of aging"
Fact: While incontinence becomes more common with age, it is NOT inevitable. Many women in their 60s, 70s, and beyond do not experience incontinence. Age is a risk factor, not a guarantee.
-
Myth 2: "There's nothing you can do about incontinence after having babies"
Fact: Postpartum incontinence is common but treatable. Supervised pelvic floor rehabilitation helps many women, and there are also non-surgical and surgical options. You don't have to accept it.
-
Myth 3: "Pelvic floor exercises don't work"
Fact: Properly performed, supervised pelvic floor exercises are highly effective for mild-moderate stress incontinence. Studies show 60-70% improvement rates. Many women fail because they do exercises incorrectly, which is why NICE recommends supervised programs as first-line treatment.
-
Myth 4: "You should drink less water to reduce leakage"
Fact: Restricting fluids concentrates your urine, which irritates the bladder and can worsen urgency and frequency. Adequate hydration is important. Instead, manage timing (e.g. reduce before bed) and avoid bladder irritants (caffeine, alcohol).
-
Myth 5: "Only older women get incontinence"
Fact: Incontinence affects women of all ages, including younger women after childbirth and athletes. Hormonal changes, genetics, and pelvic floor strain can contribute at any stage of life.
-
Myth 6: "If you have urge incontinence, it's all in your head"
Fact: Overactive bladder is a recognized medical condition involving bladder muscle overactivity and nerve signaling. It is not psychological, and treatments exist.
-
Myth 7: "Pads are the only solution"
Fact: Pads manage the symptom but don't treat the cause. Many effective treatments exist, and women often greatly improve or stop relying on pads. Treatment should be pursued, not just management.
-
Myth 8: "It's too embarrassing to talk to a doctor about"
Fact: Healthcare professionals discuss urinary incontinence regularly and will treat you with sensitivity and without judgment. Don't suffer in silence.
-
Myth 9: "Incontinence means you're not trying hard enough with exercises"
Fact: Some women have structural damage, nerve damage, or severe weakness that requires more than exercises. Needing additional treatment doesn't mean you failed—it means your body needs more support.
-
Myth 10: "Laser and RF treatments are miracle cures"
Fact: While these treatments can help selected women with mild-to-moderate symptoms, outcomes vary and evidence on long-term outcomes is still developing. Realistic expectations are essential.
Side effects, risks & aftercare guidance
Side effects and aftercare depend on the method used (laser vs RF) and your individual situation. Your clinician will confirm personalised guidance during assessment.
Laser: temporary side effects (common)
- Mild vaginal sensitivity or tenderness
- Light spotting or pink discharge
- Watery discharge for 2-5 days
- Temporary swelling
Laser: rare complications
- Vaginal infection
- Prolonged discomfort
- Tissue irritation or burns
- Allergic reaction to numbing agents
Laser: pelvic rest requirements
- No sexual intercourse for approximately 5 days
- No tampons for 5-7 days
- No swimming or bathing (showers only) for 5 days
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 5-7 days
Evidence limitations: Evidence limitations: NICE states that evidence on long-term safety and efficacy for treatment is still developing (NICE IPG696). We discuss this transparently during consultations.
RF: temporary side effects (common)
- Mild warmth or sensitivity
- Light pink discharge
- Temporary tenderness
RF: rare complications
- Burns or thermal injury
- Infection
- Prolonged discomfort
RF: specific contraindications
- Pacemakers or implanted cardiac defibrillators (device-dependent)
- Other implanted electronic devices
- Metal intrauterine devices (IUDs) may require individual assessment
RF: pelvic rest requirements
- No sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours
- No tampons for 24-48 hours
- Minimal activity restrictions otherwise
Additional resources & support (UK)
UK Organizations and Resources
NHS - Urinary Incontinence Information
Comprehensive information about types, causes, diagnosis, and NHS treatment options
Website: nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence
NICE Guidelines
Evidence-based clinical guidelines for urinary incontinence management in the UK
Website: nice.org.uk
Bladder and Bowel UK (Bladder & Bowel Community)
UK charity providing information, support, and resources for bladder and bowel conditions
Helpline: 0161 214 4591
Website: bladderandbowel.org
The Pelvic Floor Society (UK)
Professional organization promoting excellence in pelvic floor health
Resources for finding specialist physiotherapists
Website: thepelvicfloorsociety.co.uk
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) - Pelvic Health
Directory and guidance for finding qualified pelvic health physiotherapists
Website: csp.org.uk
Continence Foundation
Information about continence issues and support services
Website: continence-foundation.org.uk
Pelvic Floor Apps
Squeezy App (NHS endorsed)
App for pelvic floor exercises with reminders and guidance
Available on iOS and Android
British Society of Urogynaecology (BSUG)
Information about pelvic floor disorders and specialist services
Website: bsug.org.uk
Women's Health Concern
Independent service providing advice on gynecological and urological conditions
Website: womens-health-concern.org
The Daisy Network (Premature Menopause Support)
For women experiencing early menopause and associated symptoms including incontinence
Website: daisynetwork.org
Finding NHS Services
Your GP is your first point of contact for:
- Initial assessment and diagnosis
- Referral to NHS pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Referral to gynecology or urogynaecology specialists
- Access to NHS continence services
NHS continence services may include:
- Specialist nursing assessment
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Bladder training programs
- Supply of continence products
- Conservative treatment pathways
Private Resources
If seeking private pelvic floor physiotherapy:
- Look for physiotherapists registered with the CSP (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy)
- Check qualifications in women's health/pelvic health
- Ask about their experience with urinary incontinence specifically
Online Support Communities
Many women find peer support helpful:
- Mumsnet "Incontinence" forum
- HealthUnlocked "Bladder Health UK" community
- Reddit r/PelvicFloor community
- Facebook support groups (search "pelvic floor support UK" or "postpartum incontinence support")
Remember: While peer support is valuable, always consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical advice.
Clinical References & Citations
- 1. NICE. Quality statement 4: Supervised pelvic floor muscle training (QS77). View guidance
- 2. NICE. Quality statement 5: Bladder training (QS77). View guidance
- 3. NHS. Urinary incontinence (overview, symptoms, causes and treatment options). View NHS page
- 4. NHS. 10 ways to stop leaks (self-care guidance). View NHS guidance
- 5. NICE. Interventional Procedures Guidance IPG696 (recommendations on energy-based procedures). View recommendations
- 6. NICE. NG123: Urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women: management (recommendations). View guideline
- 7. International Continence Society (ICS). Visit ICS
- 8. British Society of Urogynaecology (BSUG) – information about pelvic floor disorders and specialist services. Website: bsug.org.uk
- 9. Bladder and Bowel UK (Bladder & Bowel Community) – UK charity providing information, support, and resources. Helpline: 0161 214 4591. Website: bladderandbowel.org
- 10. Women’s Health Concern – independent advice on gynaecological and urological conditions. Website: womens-health-concern.org
- 11. The Daisy Network – premature menopause support. Website: daisynetwork.org
- 12. The Pelvic Floor Society (UK) – professional organisation promoting excellence in pelvic floor health. Website: thepelvicfloorsociety.co.uk
- 13. Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) – finding registered physiotherapists and pelvic health services.
About Our Clinical Team
Dr Farzana Khan
BSc (Hons), MD, DFFP, RCGP
Qualifications
- MD, University of Copenhagen (2003)
- MRCGP, CCT (2013)
- Diploma of the Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive Health (2013)
Clinical focus
Sexual function and comfort
Lichen sclerosus
Vulval skin
Volume concerns
How she works
- Listens first. Conservative and medical options discussed before procedures
- Clear, balanced counselling on benefits, limits, risks, and alternatives
- Shared decisions, realistic expectations, written aftercare
Training & teaching
- KOL/Trainer: Neauvia, Asclepion Laser, RegenLab (since 2023)
- Ongoing CPD: IMCAS, CCR, ACE, and intimate HA/PRP/Polynucleotide training
Authored and medically reviewed by Dr Farzana Khan. Last updated: [November 2025]
Katy Pitt Allen
Clinical Director
Katy brings exceptional clinical expertise and international experience to her role as Clinical Director, with specialized knowledge in oncology, gynaecology, and palliative care developed through over a decade of nursing excellence. Her proven leadership skills, demonstrated through her progression from staff nurse to junior ward sister and her current international oncology practice, ensure our clinic maintains the highest clinical standards while delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to all patients.
Dr Kamaljit Singh
Clinical Oversight
Dr. Kamaljit Singh provides medical oversight for our clinical team, bringing over 25 years of comprehensive healthcare experience to ensure the highest standards of patient care. A graduate of Leeds Medical School with distinction, Dr. Singh holds his MRCGP qualification and served as a senior partner at Leicester Medical Group for 16 years. His expertise spans both traditional medicine and aesthetic procedures, with specialized training in cosmetic treatments and 18 years of membership with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Singh's background includes roles as an FY2 trainer and GP assessor, demonstrating his commitment to medical education and professional standards that ensure our clinical team operates with rigorous oversight and excellence.
Jill Crowe
Director of Relationships
Jill brings over two decades of nursing excellence and exceptional relationship-building skills to her role as Relationship Manager at our women's health clinic. With her proven expertise in communication, team leadership, and inter-agency collaboration, she seamlessly coordinates between practitioners, patients, and partners to ensure the highest quality of care and service delivery.
Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Experiences Shared by Women Like You
- Educational and informational only. Individual experiences vary.
- Patient feedback reflects personal experiences, not clinical outcomes.
- Reviews relate to overall care and service experience.
How we work?
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Free Telephone Consultation —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Preparation & Clinical Guidance —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Face-to-Face Consultation —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Evidence-Based Treatment —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Immediate Aftercare & Comfort —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Review & Expectation Management —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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Long-Term Care & Follow-Up —Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
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