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Urinary incontinence in women

Professionally updated: May 2, 2024

Urinary incontinence is a condition where you can't control your urination. It can be an embarrassing and distressing condition for many women. Fortunately, there are treatment options and methods to help manage this condition.

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Jakob Fraes
Specialist in General Medicine, PhD
Read more about Urinary incontinence in women. Everything you need to know.

Causes of urinary incontinence

There are many different causes of urinary incontinence in women. Some of the most common include aging, hormonal changes, pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, urinary tract infections, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.

Types of urinary incontinence

There are different types of urinary incontinence. The most common are urge incontinence (when you feel a sudden urge to urinate) and stress urinary incontinence (when you leak urine during physical activity such as coughing, sneezing or lifting).

Diagnostic methods

To find the cause of urinary incontinence, your doctor may recommend a number of tests. These may include a urine sample, bladder scan, cystoscopy or uroflowmetry. These tests can help determine the specific type and cause of the incontinence.

Treatment options

Depending on the cause and type of urinary incontinence, there are different treatment options available. These can range from lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to medical treatment and in some cases surgery.

Prevention and lifestyle advice

Many women find relief by making certain lifestyle changes. These can include weight loss, bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and avoiding certain drinks and foods that can irritate the bladder.

When to seek medical attention

If you experience symptoms of urinary incontinence, it's important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from getting worse and can significantly improve your quality of life.

Are you ready to book an appointment? Our team of skilled doctors are here to help. Book your appointment now and take the first step towards a better quality of life.

Frequently asked questions about urinary incontinence

Can pregnancy cause urinary incontinence?

Yes, pregnancy, childbirth and the hormonal changes that come with it can increase the risk of urinary incontinence in women.

What lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms?

Pelvic floor exercises, weight loss, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and regular bladder emptying can help reduce symptoms.

Is surgery the only solution for severe urinary incontinence?

No, there are many treatment options including medication, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Surgery may be considered if other treatments don't have the desired effect.