What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary Incontinence Means The Involuntary Leakage Of Urine. It Is A Medical Condition-not A Normal Part Of Ageing. Although It Is More Common In Women, It Can Affect Men As Well. Fortunately, In Most Cases It Can Be Treated Or Significantly Improved.

How Common Is Urinary Incontinence In Women?

It Is Very Common. Nearly One In Three Women Experiences Urinary Leakage At Some Stage Of Life. However, Many Women Feel Embarrassed And Do Not Seek Medical Help, Believing That Nothing Can Be Done.

Why Are Women More Likely Than Men To Develop Urinary Incontinence?

Pregnancy, Childbirth, Menopause, Weakening Of Pelvic Floor Muscles, And The Shorter Female Urethra Increase The Risk. Ageing, Obesity, Chronic Cough, Constipation, And Previous Pelvic Surgery Also Contribute.

What Are The Different Types Of Urinary Incontinence?

Stress Incontinence: Leakage While Coughing, Sneezing, Laughing, Or Exercising.

Urge Incontinence: A Sudden, Intense Urge To Pass Urine Followed By Leakage.

Treatment Support Freedom

Mixed Incontinence: Combination Of Stress And Urge Incontinence.

Overflow Incontinence: Leakage Because The Bladder Does Not Empty Completely.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help?

Yes. Many Women Improve With Simple Measures Such As: Losing Excess Weight. Reducing Caffeine And Alcohol. Avoiding Smoking. Treating Constipation. Drinking Adequate, But Not Excessive, Fluids. Following A Bladder Training Programme.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.