This is an operation to treat stress incontinence (leakage of urine when you exercise, cough, sneeze or strain). It involves making a small cut inside your vagina and passing a tape under your urethra (waterpipe). The tape is like a ribbon, made out of plastic mesh, and stays inside the body permanently. When you exercise or cough, there is downward pressure on the bladder. The tape acts as a support underneath your urethra to hold it closed when the bladder is pushed down; this stops any urine leakage.

Two thirds (66%) of women are completely dry after this procedure.

This is a relatively minor procedure with a short recovery time.