Is urinary incontinence a normal part of ageing or childbirth?

Although urinary incontinence is more common after childbirth and with age, it is not something you have to accept. Many women improve with appropriate care.

How long do pelvic floor exercises take to work?

Many women notice improvement within 6 to 8 weeks, with further benefits over about three months when exercises are done correctly and consistently.

Do laser or RF treatments hurt?

Most women report warmth, tingling, or mild discomfort rather than pain. These treatments are generally well tolerated.

Are results permanent?

Results can last for many months but are not guaranteed to be permanent. Ageing, menopause, and lifestyle factors can influence symptoms over time.

Medical Insight: Non-Surgical SUI Care

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.

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Why Women Choose Our Clinic

CQC-regulated medical clinics GP-led women’s care Evidence-informed approach

Practitioner-Led Care

Delivered by Dr Farzana Khan.

Medical Oversight

Safety & clinical governance.

Clinical specialist assessment for urinary incontinence

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

What? - Urinary Incontinence Care

What 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 Common

Leakage during physical exertion when bladder pressure exceeds urethral closure pressure.

Coughing / sneezing
Laughing
Running / lifting

Urgency Incontinence

Overactive

Leakage with a sudden, compelling urge to pass urine that is difficult to defer.

Sudden urgency
Frequent urination
Waking at night (nocturia)

Mixed Incontinence

Combination

A 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.

Pregnancy & childbirth Menopause changes High-impact exercise Tissue weakness

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.

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Medical note: Classification follows International Continence Society principles. Diagnosis requires clinical assessment. Educational information only. Results vary and no treatment is guaranteed.

Who? Urinary Incontinence Care

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.

Specialist consultation for urinary incontinence treatment planning

Why? Urinary Incontinence Care

Why 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.

Consultation discussing non-surgical urinary incontinence options

Price? Urinary Incontinence Treatment

Pricing for Non-Surgical Urinary Incontinence Treatment

Final costs are confirmed after clinical assessment.

Recommended Course

Nu-V Vaginal Laser (Course of 3)

A structured course commonly recommended for pelvic tissue support, typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

£1,200 – £1,800

course of 3
laser sessions

Clinician-led treatment (nurse- or doctor-led, as appropriate)
All consumables and medical supplies included
Aftercare guidance with follow-up assessment

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Price List

Nu-V Vaginal Laser (Single Session) £599 / £799

Nu-V Vaginal Laser (Course of 3) £1,200 / £1,800

Radiofrequency (RF) £699

RF – Course of 4 £2,300

Free Telephone Consultation Free

Suitability, sequencing, and any combination plans are confirmed after clinical assessment.

No Hidden Fees

What’s Included in Treatment Fees

Initial clinical consultation and assessment, treatment delivered by an experienced clinician, all consumables and medical supplies, detailed aftercare guidance, follow-up assessment, plus ongoing support.

Included

Get Exact Pricing

Risks? Urinary Incontinence Treatment

Safety, 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.

Blood in urine (haematuria) May indicate infection, stones, or rarely bladder cancer.

Recurrent urinary tract infections Three or more UTIs in 12 months should be investigated.

New pelvic pain or sudden worsening Unexplained pain, fever with urinary symptoms, or sudden severe incontinence needs assessment.

Neurological or emptying symptoms Numbness/weakness, saddle numbness, bowel changes, or difficulty emptying the bladder needs urgent review.

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.

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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.

FAQs

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?

Stress incontinence causes leakage during physical activities like coughing, laughing, sneezing, lifting, or exercise. Urge incontinence involves a sudden strong urge to pass urine and may include frequency and waking at night. Mixed incontinence means you experience both patterns (NICE).

Why do I leak urine when I laugh or cough?

This is stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Physical pressure increases in the abdomen and pushes against the bladder; if pelvic floor support and urethral closure are reduced, leakage can occur. This differs from urge incontinence, which involves bladder muscle contractions.

Is urinary incontinence a normal part of aging or having babies?

No. While incontinence becomes more common with age and after childbirth, it is not something you have to accept. Many women see significant improvement with appropriate care.

How common is urinary incontinence in women?

Approximately 1 in 3 women in the UK experience urinary incontinence at some stage of life, but fewer than 30% seek help due to embarrassment.

What's the best treatment for stress incontinence in the UK?

NICE guidelines recommend supervised pelvic floor muscle training and bladder training as first-line treatments. Options may include physiotherapy, lifestyle changes, and—when appropriate—clinic-based treatments (laser/RF) or surgical interventions depending on severity.

Can stress incontinence be cured without surgery?

Many women improve significantly with conservative treatments such as supervised pelvic floor muscle training and bladder training. Some may benefit from additional options depending on severity and response to first-line care.

Will you still recommend pelvic floor training and bladder training?

Yes. Pelvic floor muscle training and bladder training are core first-line approaches and may be recommended alongside other options depending on your symptom pattern and goals.

Do I need to try pelvic floor exercises before considering laser or RF?

Ideally, yes. NICE recommends supervised pelvic floor training first. If you have completed an adequate trial (often around 3 months) without sufficient improvement, you can discuss other options.

How long does it take for pelvic floor exercises to work?

Most women notice some improvement within 6-8 weeks of consistent training, with further gains over 3 months of supervised pelvic floor muscle training. Consistency and correct technique are crucial.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

Most protocols involve a course of treatments. Laser typically involves 3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. RF treatment plans can vary depending on severity, tissue response, and symptoms.

Does laser or RF treatment hurt?

Most women report warmth, tingling, and mild discomfort rather than pain. Laser can feel like warmth and mild sensitivity. RF is usually a gentle, tolerable warmth. Both are generally well-tolerated.

What's the downtime after treatment?

Most women return to normal daily activities quickly. You may be advised pelvic rest for a short period (e.g., avoiding intercourse and tampons for several days depending on the method used). Your clinician will confirm personalised aftercare.

When will I see results?

Response varies. Some women notice changes after the first session, while others see benefits build gradually over a course of treatment. We will review your response and adjust your plan where appropriate.

Will my results be permanent?

Results can last for many months, but they are not guaranteed to be permanent. Ongoing factors such as menopause, weight changes, physical strain, and ageing can influence symptoms over time.

What about maintenance treatments?

Some women choose maintenance sessions depending on symptom recurrence and response. If maintenance is appropriate, we will discuss timing and realistic expectations during follow-up.

What does NICE say about vaginal laser for stress incontinence?

NICE states that evidence on long-term safety and effectiveness for some energy-based procedures is still developing. We discuss evidence limitations transparently and ensure conservative pathways are considered first.

Are these treatments safe?

Safety depends on appropriate patient selection, correct technique, and proper aftercare. We screen for contraindications and red flags and discuss risks, alternatives, and evidence limitations as part of informed consent.

What are the risks and side effects?

Temporary side effects can include mild sensitivity, light spotting, watery discharge for a few days, or temporary swelling. Rare risks can include infection, prolonged discomfort, tissue irritation/burns, or allergic reaction to numbing agents. Your clinician will discuss personal risk factors and aftercare.

Is this better than surgery?

It depends on your diagnosis, severity, and preferences. Surgery may be appropriate for some women with severe stress incontinence, while others prefer conservative care and non-surgical options first. We’ll discuss benefits, limitations, and alternatives in your consultation.

What if I'm not suitable for laser or RF treatment?

If you are not suitable, we will tell you clearly and discuss alternatives such as pelvic floor physiotherapy, bladder training, lifestyle support, or referral back to your GP/specialist pathway where appropriate.

Can I have treatment if I have a coil (IUD)?

This depends on the type of treatment and device. For RF treatments, metal intrauterine devices (IUDs) may require individual assessment. Your clinician will advise based on your situation.

Can I have treatment during menopause?

Many women experience urinary symptoms during menopause. Suitability depends on your symptoms, examination findings, and overall health. Your clinician will discuss conservative and clinic-based options where appropriate.

Can I have treatment if I plan to have more children?

Pregnancy and childbirth can affect pelvic floor support. If you are actively trying to conceive, treatment may be postponed. If you plan more children in the future, we’ll discuss realistic expectations and timing.

Is this available on the NHS?

NHS pathways commonly include assessment, supervised pelvic floor physiotherapy, bladder training, and specialist referral when indicated. Availability of specific clinic-based laser/RF options varies. Your GP is the best starting point for NHS assessment and referrals.

Do you offer payment plans?

Payment plans may be available depending on the treatment cost and your circumstances. Ask about this during your consultation.

How long is each appointment?

Initial consultation: 30-45 minutes. Treatment sessions: 15-30 minutes per visit including preparation and aftercare discussion.

Can my partner attend appointments with me?

Yes, partners or support persons are welcome at consultation appointments. Treatments are performed in private with only clinical staff present.

What if I have questions after treatment?

You'll receive direct contact information for our clinical team. Most questions resolve within a few days after treatment, but you can contact us anytime if concerns arise.

Want a personalised plan?

Book a confidential consultation to confirm your symptom pattern and discuss your next steps.

Book Free Consultation

Extra

More 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.

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Karen Thomas

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All I can say is thankyou to Katy who had time to talk to me & put my mind at rest from the suffering of menapause. Very professional & a lot of empathy was shown. Can't wait to start my treatment which is already on its way.

Alba Barrett

I had the Nu-V treatment... It has been completely life changing. Highly recommend this clinic, Katy is an amazing practitioner.

Lesley Chapman

Had a few treatments here now, NU-V, micro-needling face peel.... I will NOT go anywhere else - these ladies are experts in their field! Worlds apart from your local beauty therapists.... They are qualified medical professionals and know their treatments inside out!! Treat yourself.

Shona Croft

I met Katy this week at the WHC: she listened to me, underwood everything I had to say and although I’m sure she’s heard it all before, was patient, kind, funny and warm. Prescription all sorted within days, everything followed up by email and I’ll be a new refurbished woman in no time! A very positive and pleasant experience.

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