When surgical procedures are considered as the best way to treat urinary incontinence a patient should ask detailed questions. No question should be considered embarrassing. Only agree to surgery when you feel comfortable with the information you have received. If in doubt, call your health insurance and ask them questions as well as approval to get a second opinion on the open issues. Usually your healthcare provider will approve the extra expense associated with getting a second opinion. Here are some example questions to ask a doctor:



What are the possible causes of my incontinence symptoms?

What type of incontinence do I have?

What are my treatment choices for this type of incontinence?

What surgical procedure do you recommend for the kind of incontinence I have? Why?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this specific surgical procedure?

What is the risk of complications from this surgery?

What possible complications are most likely to occur for somebody of my age?

How will the complications be treated?

How much will the surgery cost (this question should also be asked to your health insurance)?

How long will I have to stay in the hospital?

How soon after the operation will I be able to resume my normal activities?

What physical restrictions (e.g., lifting heavy objects) will I have after surgery and for how long?

Take notes during the conversation with the doctor. You will most likely be a little overwhelmed by the flood of information. Review everything later during the day and prepare a list of more questions to ask. Call the doctor's office and ask for another phone consultation to eliminate any open questions. Bring the notes with you at the day of surgery. Eventually brief a helper (spouse, friend, etc.) with your concerns - especially with anything that plays a role after surgery. You might be tired and dizzy and you will want someone with a clear mind to be there to ask questions in your name.