InterStim
InterStim
Bladder control problems affect tens of millions of people every day. If you’re one of them, you should speak up.
Does this sound familiar?
- Going more than 8 times a day?
- Avoiding social events?
- Using pads to control leaks?
Medtronic Bladder Control Therapy Delivered by the InterStim System
Evidence suggests that breakdowns in the bladder-brain communication pathway may be a root cause of OAB and non-obstructive urinary retention. That’s why conventional treatments may not produce the results you want — they don’t directly target this miscommunication.
InterStim systems gently stimulate the sacral nerves in the pelvic area that control the bladder. This may help restore bladder-brain communication and reduce symptoms.
Get more control with InterStim Systems
More than 350,000 people worldwide have chosen InterStim systems for more control and long-lasting relief.
satisfaction among those who use it
greater improvements in OAB quality of life
of people achieved success at 5 years
You are not alone.
Find relief for bladder control problems.
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a treatable condition. It’s not a normal part of aging. And you shouldn’t have to deal with it on your own.
Patient Stories
Frequently asked questions about OAB
Am I a good candidate for InterStim?
- You have significant OAB symptoms or non-obstructive urinary retention
- You’ve tried lifestyle changes and oral medications
- Those therapies haven’t given you the relief you want
What are the symptoms of OAB?
Urge incontinence
Urgency-frequency
What is Urinary Retention?
Urinary retention is defined as the inability to completely or partially empty the bladder. You may be unable to start urination, or if you are able to start, you can’t fully empty your bladder.
Does This Sound Familiar?
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
- Weak dribble or stream of urine
- Loss of small amounts of urine during the day
- Inability to feel when bladder is full
- Increased abdominal pressure
- Lack of urge to urinate
- Strained efforts to push urine out of the bladder
- Frequent urination
- Nocturia (waking up more than two times at night to urinate)
Why Is This Happening?
There are two general types of urinary retention: obstructive and non-obstructive. If there is an obstruction (for example, kidney stones), urine cannot flow freely through the urinary tract. Non-obstructive causes include a weak bladder muscle and nerve problems that interfere with signals between the brain and the bladder. If the nerves aren’t working properly, the brain may not get the message that the bladder is full.
Some of the most common causes of non-obstructive urinary retention are:
- Stroke
- Vaginal childbirth
- Pelvic injury or trauma
- Impaired muscle or nerve function due to medication or anesthesia
- Accidents that injure the brain or spinal cord
Obstructive retention may result from:
- Cancer
- Kidney or bladder stones
- Enlarged prostate (BPH) in men
Please note: InterStim™ is not indicated for Obstructive Retention.
Treat Yourself to Less Worry
Urinary retention is a treatable condition. Don’t be afraid to speak up about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. This will help your doctor find the right treatment for you.