Various devices to treat urinary incontinence:

Catheterization is one way to manage the problem of urinary incontinence.

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine.

Catheters may be used once in a while or on a constant basis, in which case the tube connects to a bag that you can attach to your leg.

In a case of a long-term (indwelling) use of a catheter, one should watch for possible urinary tract infections.

External catheter systems, called condom catheters are available for men.

A pessary is a rubber device that is inserted into the upper vagina, where it helps support the pelvic organs to reduce leakage.

It is usually not necessary to remove the pessary to urinate, but it needs to be regularly removed in order to clean it.

Women who use pessaries should watch for possible vaginal and urinary tract infections.

Urethral inserts are small, tampon-like plugs that a woman inserts into her urethra to block the leakage of urine.

When need to urinate arise, you simply remove the device.

Many women find urethral inserts uncomfortable.

Clamps and compression rings are placed around the penis to prevent urine leakage. They must be removed to urinate.

The clamp is put halfway down the shaft of the penis and then tightened to compress the urethra.

Electrodes that are temporarily placed in the vagina or rectum can stimulate nearby muscles in a way similar to excercising the muscles.

Electrical stimulation devices can be used to reduce stress and urge incontinence.