Changes in the Bladder Micro-environment Following Midurethral Sling Surgery for Stress Urinary Incontinence

Primary Objectives: This is a pilot study to evaluate how midurethral sling (MUS) placement for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects the bladder microenvironment, specifically the local microbial community or "microbiome" of the bladder and the cytokine expression profile. The investigators also aim to correlate any changes in the microbiome or cytokine expression profile with patient-reported urinary symptoms preoperatively and postoperatively. Specific Aim 1: Assess the change in the urinary and vaginal microbiome (preoperatively to postoperatively) in women undergoing MUS placement for the treatment of SUI. The investigators hypothesize that the bladder environment will be disturbed by surgery involving the lower urinary tract and will show demonstrable changes in the urinary and vaginal microbiota. Specific Aim 2: Characterize the cytokine profile of the bladder (preoperatively to postoperatively) in women undergoing MUS placement for the treatment of SUI. The investigators hypothesize that MUS treatment will change the cytokine profile of the bladder and lead to alterations in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.