“I am able to enjoy my life again, worry-free”: Lisa’s journey with stress urinary incontinence
Staying active has always been important to Lisa Buggy Lynch. Based in Galway, Ireland, the 44-year-old Boston Scientific employee is used to being constantly on the move, whether cycling, swimming or spending time with her family. But after the birth of her third child, Lisa began experiencing urine leakage during certain physical movements. She was diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
Lisa is not alone. It is estimated that one in three women worldwide may experience SUI at some point in their lives.1 It can occur when the sphincter muscles that control the urethra weaken, causing leakage during activity that puts pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, laughing or exercise. Pregnancies and childbirth are among the factors that can increase the development of SUI.2
Lisa Buggy Lynch, Boston Scientific employee treated with the Bulkamid™ Urethral Bulking System
Living with stress urinary incontinence
For four years, Lisa worked around her symptoms in her daily life. The condition affected how she approached everyday activities, from exercise and travel to spending time with her children, often requiring her to plan ahead and adapt her routine.
“Stress incontinence is a common problem,” says Paul Moran, consultant gynaecologist and urogynaecologist at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. “In women between 45 and 60 years old, up to 50 percent can experience leakage, even on a daily basis.”
“I didn’t let the condition stop me, but I had to always keep it in mind and take precautions,” Lisa said.
Exploring treatment options
Lisa explored different ways to manage her symptoms, with pelvic floor physiotherapy and lifestyle interventions as a first step. As her symptoms persisted, she began looking for other options. After learning about the Bulkamid™ Urethral Bulking System, she spoke to her general practitioner and was referred to a specialist in Dublin to understand whether it could be suitable for her.
Bulkamid is a water-based hydrogel that’s injected into the urethral wall to bulk it up with the intention to reduce leakage.3 The procedure involves three to four injections and takes about 20 minutes in total. Bulkamid can provide long-lasting symptom relief with clinical data indicating improvement for the majority of patients after seven years.4
“It is important that people with SUI seek professional help early to understand available treatment options,” Dr Moran highlighted. “Bulkamid can be performed under local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting with a quick return to normal activities.”
“The procedure itself was very straightforward. It lasted only a few minutes, and it had immediate effect,” Lisa remembered. “I could go back to work on the same day.”
Worry-free activities after treatment
Lisa was able to return to the activities she enjoys with greater confidence. A few days after her procedure, Lisa was able to complete a challenging 140 km cycling trip that she had been training for.
She is now using her experience to spread the word about solutions for SUI and to help raise awareness for other women. “Having the courage to speak out is really important, and so is being able to enjoy your life again, worry-free.”
During World Continence Week 2026 (15-21 June), Boston Scientific aims to raise awareness about urinary incontinence, to help break the stigma, and encourage people experiencing symptoms to seek professional help.
Lear more about Lisa's experience by watching the video below:
References