Periurethral bulking agents are used to treat stress urinary incontinence. The bulking agents are designed to "tighten" the urethra to treat urinary incontinence. The bulking agents most commonly used are Collagen, Durasphere, Deflux, and Tegress. The agents are injected into the urethra using a special instrument that is placed inside the urethra.

The procedure is done in the office or operating room, and usually takes just 15 minutes. No sedation is required, and patients may go home after they demonstrate that they can urinate effectively.

Any women bothered by her incontinence, and who has already used pelvic floor exercises or have had a prior surgery without significant improvement or recurrence.

60-70% of women will have an improvement in their incontinence after 2 injections. The duration of benefit from bulking agents is 7-12 months.

Some people may have an allergic reaction to collagen, and therefore need to have a skin test one month prior to the procedure.  After injection, some women will have difficulty urinating, and may need a catheter to empty their bladder for a period of time.