Stress incontinence occurs when there is unexpected leakage of urine caused by pressure or sudden muscle contractions on the bladder.This often occurs during pregnancy, sneezing, lifting heavy objects, exercise and some medical conditions. This type of incontinence is related to pressure to urinary bladder.
Stress incontinence is the most common bladder control problem in young and middle-aged women. In younger women, the condition may be due to an inherent weakness of the pelvic floor muscles or an effect from the stress of vaginal childbirth. In middle-aged women, stress incontinence may begin to be a problem at menopause.
In men, prostate surgery can cause stress incontinence. Removal of this enlarged gland reduces the supportive structures holding the urethral and bladder opening.
Urinary tract infections can also cause symptoms similar to stress incontinence. So it is really important to have your urine tested for infections. It’s best to talk to your doctor to rule out this reason.
Treatment For Stress Incontinence
- Doing Pelvic Floor Exercises can tone and reduce frequent leaks.
- Making lifestyle changes like losing weight thereby reducing pressure on the pelvic region.
- Avoiding coffee and alcohol as both increase urine production.
- Surgery could be advised by the doctor if the stress incontinence is severe.
