Urinary Incontinence

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary Inconinence is the involentary leakage of urine. It is more common in women (after childbirth or menopause) but it also affects men, especially after prostate surgery.

What Types Of Incontinence Could I Experience?

• Stress incontinence - leakage with coughing, sneezing, or exercise

• Urge incontinence - sudden and intense urge to urinate followed by leakage

• Overflow incontinence - constant dribbling due to incomplete bladder emptying

• Functional incontinence - related to physical or cognitive limitations

What Symptoms Should I Look For?

• Sudden, uncontrolled leakage of urine

• Frequent urination, day or night

• Strong, sudden urges to urinate

• Feeling of incomplete emptying of bladder

How Is Urinary Incontinence Diagnosed?

• Medical history and bladder diary

• Urine tests for infection or blood

• post-void residual test (measuring left over urine after urination)

• Urodynamic testing for bladder function

• Ultrasound or cystoscopy if structural problems suspected

What Treatment Options Are Available?

• Lifestyle modifications, fluid and diet management

• Bladder training

• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels)

• Medications to calm an overactive bladder

• Medical devices such as urethral inserts or pessaries

• Surgery such as sling procedures, artificial urinary sphincter (mainly in men)

How Can I Prevent Urinary Incontinence?

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Avoid bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods

• Strengthen pelvic floor muscles regularly

• Manage constipation