Urinary incontinence is uncontrolled leakage of urinethat occurs when a person cannot fully control the bladder.
It is a common problem, especially in women, and can occur in different forms: stress incontinence - leakage of urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing or physical exertion increases the pressure on the bladder, urge incontinence - a sudden strong urge to urinate that is difficult to hold back, mixed incontinence - a combination of both forms; and overflow incontinence - when the bladder is not completely emptied and urine comes out in droplets.
Causes can be weakened pelvic floor muscles, childbirth, hormonal changes after menopause, urinary tract infections, neurological diseases or certain medicines.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include pelvic floor strengthening exercises (Kegel exercises), physiotherapy, lifestyle changes (reducing caffeine, maintaining a healthy weight), medicines or in some cases surgery and Laser therapy.
It is a common and manageable problem, so it is important to raise awareness about it talk openly with your doctorwho can suggest appropriate treatment.