Cambridge sensors tackle incontinence

Tackling the "privy" issue of urinary and bowel incontinence, the Cambridge-based company a.gain medical says it has invented the world's first urethral sensor for women. The company's idea is that by using a system of devices and software utilizing urethral, vaginal or anal biofeedback, patients can learn to use their pelvic floor muscles correctly. 

Urinary and bowel incontinence affect 6 million people in the UK alone and growing trend of women having children later in life indicates urinary incontinence could become even more prevalent, according to a.gain. The global incontinent market is estimated to be £2 billion, the company said.

a.gain said its sensors have the advantage of providing more precise feedback from the pelvic floor muscles, since the information describes the direct muscle connection with the urethra and bladder where the problem is actually located. Its system can be used to promote continence for people without normal bladder control and/or uncontrolled bowel output.

According to a.gain CEO Robert Dixon, the urethral sensor for women is in final stage of development. And unlike other sensors on the market that are designed to be reusable, its sensor will be for single use, which would save time spent on washing between uses.

The company is seeking £350,000 for further development and product manufacture as well as clinical trials.