Botox®

Botox® for Overactive Bladder (OAB)

Botox® is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for women struggling with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms such as urgency, frequent urination, and urinary leakage. These symptoms are common and can be related to factors such as childbirth, hormonal changes, or pelvic floor dysfunction. Botox helps calm overactive bladder signals, reducing leakage, and improving daily comfort and confidence. Treatment is personalized to each patient’s needs to ensure optimal outcomes.

If medications or lifestyle changes haven’t worked, Botox® may help you regain control and improve your quality of life.

What is Botox® for the Bladder?

Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) is an FDA-approved prescription treatment that is injected into the bladder muscle to help reduce symptoms of overactive bladder. 

Unlike cosmetic Botox, this treatment targets the bladder to improve urinary control. 

What Conditions Does Botox® Treat?

Bladder Botox is used to treat: 

• Overactive bladder (OAB)
• Urge urinary incontinence (leakage)
• Urinary urgency (sudden strong need to go)
• Frequent urination (including nighttime urination)

It is typically recommended for patients who have not had success with medications or cannot tolerate their side effects. 

How Does Botox® Work?

Botox works by calming the nerves that trigger bladder muscle contractions. 

In OAB, the bladder contracts too often, even when it’s not full. Botox blocks these nerve signals, helping the bladder relax and store urine more effectively. 

Who is a Candidate? 

You may be a candidate for Botox if:

• You experience urgency, frequency, or leakage
• Medications haven’t worked or caused side effects
• You want a non-surgical treatment option 

Our providers will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine if Botox is right for you. 

Benefits of Botox® Treatment

Patients choose Botox because it offers:

• Significant reduction in urgency and leakage
• Fewer bathroom trips during the day and night
• Improved sleep and confidence
• Long-lasting relief (typically 6-9 months)
• No surgery or downtime

Many patients experience meaningful improvement in their daily lives after treatment.

The Procedure

What to Expect During the Procedure

• Procedure takes about 10-20 minutes
• A small camera (cystoscope) is used to guide treatment
• Multiple small injections are placed into the bladder wall
• You go home the same day

Most patients report minimal discomfort and are surprised by how quick the procedure is. 

Risks and Side Effects

Botox is generally very safe when performed by experienced providers.

Possible side effects include:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Temporary difficulty emptying the bladder
• Mild burning with urination

A small percentage of patients may require temporary catheter use until bladder function returns to normal. 

How Long Does Botox® Last?

• Results typically last 6 to 9 months
• Effects gradually wear off over time
• Repeat treatments are safe and common

Frequently Asked Questions