Labial fusion causing urinary incontinence: comment

Abstract

Dear Editor, We read with interest the recent case report by Dirim and Hasirci, which concluded that dividing the labial fusion can completely alleviate all urinary symptoms [1]. Indeed, there is a body of evidence to support the surgical division of labial adhesion to treat the pseudo-incontinence in postmenopausal women [2].In current practice, usually the regular vaginal examination is not performed in routine follow-up visits, which may lead to under-diagnosis of such cases. The lesson is clear: regular examination is crucial to provide good medical care.In our experience we had a similar case, and division of adhesions did help to alleviate the symptoms of retention and recurrent urine infection, but not the stress urinary incontinence, as the authors addressed in their case report. It will be useful if the authors provide a logical explanation for the relation between dividing the labial adhesion and the cure of stress urinary incontinence. Also, it is important to emphasis the local application of oestrogen creams following division as this may help in preventing further recurrence [3].

Overactive bladder after female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) type III

“…A regular examination is crucial to provide good medical care20 and avoid overlooking rare but simple reversible conditions 15. A careful genital examination is necessary to recognise and classify the type of FGM/C, exclude long-term complications, such as cysts, distinguishing infibulation from other kinds of labial fusion and propose appropriate treatment.…”