Urinary Incontinence

​

                        Urinary Incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine. In a healthy individual, urine is retained in the bladder until it is consciously released. However, those with urinary incontinence experience leakage when coughing, laughing, sneezing, or applying pressure to the pelvic area, such as during weightlifting. This is typically due to weakened pelvic muscles or poor coordination between the bladder and urethra.

​

Types of Urinary Incontinence:

Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI):

                This common form affects about 50% of women and 25% of men, particularly in the U.S. It occurs when weakened pelvic floor muscles and tissues fail to properly support the bladder and urethra, causing urine leakage during physical activities that increase pressure on the bladder, such as coughing or lifting.

Urgency Urinary Incontinence/Overactive Bladder (OAB):

                     In this condition, individuals feel a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often needing to rush to the toilet. If they don't empty their bladder immediately, leakage occurs. OAB is more common with aging and can be associated with conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or after a stroke.

Overflow Incontinence:

                This occurs when the bladder doesn't empty completely, leading to frequent filling and eventual leakage or overflow. It is more prevalent in women and can be related to diabetes, neurological issues, or an underactive bladder. In men, it may be linked to prostate problems.

Mixed Incontinence:

               This condition combines symptoms of both Stress Urinary Incontinence and Overactive Bladder, meaning a person experiences both types of leakage.

​

Causes of Incontinence:

Urinary incontinence is often a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a standalone condition. Some common causes include:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

• Constipation

• Side effects of medications

• Chronic conditions like diabetes, stroke, or multiple sclerosis

• Childbirth and menopause in women, which can weaken pelvic muscles

​

Diagnosis and Treatment:

A gynecologist typically begins by asking about your fluid intake, lifestyle, diet, severity of incontinence, and frequency of urination. Diagnostic tests may include a physical exam, urine tests for infections, ultrasound after urination, and a stress test (such as coughing or sneezing) to assess leakage.

A detailed medical history, including any recent pelvic surgeries, will also be reviewed.

Treatment options vary depending on the cause and severity of incontinence. They may range from lifestyle changes and medications to, in some cases, surgical interventions.

At Harmony Center for women's health we offer you surgical and non surgical treatments for incontinence depending on your condition. Do not be afraid to talk about your intimate health to our expert team