Female Urinary incontinence

How Does Stress Urinary Incontinence Affect the Bladder?
• In SUI, bladder leakage occurs due to weakened pelvic muscles and tissues that normally support the bladder.
• In a healthy bladder, the muscles around the urethra stay closed, preventing urine from leaking until it’s time to visit the bathroom.
• With SUI, however, physical activities that exert pressure on the bladder, such as running, sneezing, or laughing, can cause urine leakage. This happens because the weakened pelvic muscles are no longer able to keep the urethra closed under pressure.

Causes of Stress Urinary Incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence can develop gradually over time, often as you age, or may be triggered by specific events or factors, such as:

• Childbirth
• Pelvic surgery
• Menopause
• Obesity

Other conditions that may contribute to SUI include depression, urinary tract infections, smoking, and diabetes. It can also result from chronic coughing or high-impact activities like running and aerobics.

Approximately 75% of women with bladder leakage do not discuss their condition with a healthcare provider.

How is Urinary Incontinence Diagnosed?
Since there are various types of urinary incontinence with similar symptoms, it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis to determine the most appropriate treatment.

1. Medical History
   Your doctor will begin by asking about your medical history, including any medications or supplements you’re taking. They will also inquire about your bladder leakage symptoms, including when and how often they occur. It’s important to be honest and detailed, as this will help guide the diagnosis and treatment.
2. Physical Exam
   After reviewing your medical history, a physical exam will likely be conducted. Your healthcare provider may assess any pelvic floor issues that could be contributing to your bladder leakage. They may also ask you to perform a “cough test” to observe how your bladder responds to stress during everyday activities.
3. Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence
   If you experience bladder leakage during certain activities, it could be a sign of stress urinary incontinence. Consider the following:

• Do you leak urine when you:
  • Laugh
  • Cough
  • Sneeze
  • Lift heavy objects
  • Engage in physical activity
  • Have intercourse

1 in 3 women over the age of 45 are affected by stress urinary incontinence.

While these symptoms may suggest stress incontinence, they are not exclusive to this condition. It’s important to consult with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.