Incontinence
Incontinence in women is a common problem that can cause significant discomfort. It is essential to provide appropriate treatments.
Types of incontinence
Different forms of incontinence can occur in women:
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence occurs when pressure is put on the bladder by physical activities such as coughing, sneezing or exercising. This can lead to involuntary urine leakage.
Urge incontinence
Urge incontinence can be caused by an overactive bladder, where there is a sudden, strong urge to urinate, sometimes resulting in involuntary leakage of urine.
Mixed incontinence
Mixed incontinence is a combination of stress incontinence and urge incontinence, resulting in both urine leakage during physical activities and sudden urge to urinate.
Causes of incontinence
Causes of incontinence in women can vary:
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the muscles and nerves of the pelvic floor, causing incontinence.
Hormones
Changes in hormones during menopause can lead to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Overweight
Overweight and obesity can put extra pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor, causing incontinence.
Neurological
Neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), or spinal cord injury can disrupt the nerve signals to the bladder.
Treatments for incontinence
Treatments for female incontinence can vary:
- Pelvic floor therapy to learn how to use, strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles.
- Medication to regulate bladder function and reduce excessive urge to urinate.
- Invasive procedures such as Botox injections or surgery to support the bladder.
Specialist in women's care
Would you like to make an appointment with one of our urology specialists? Contact us by phone or online, we are ready for you.
