ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM URINARY INCONTINENCE? YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Urinary incontinence is when urine leaks out before you can make it to the bathroom. Many women experience urinary incontinence. There are several types of urinary incontinence. Stress incontinence is when urine leaks as a result of a cough, sneeze, laugh, heavy lifting, or exercise. Urge incontinence is when the urine leaks as a result of a strong sudden urge to use the bathroom. Functional incontinence is leakage due to the inability to reach the bathroom in time. This is often due to an illness (Alzheimer's) or physical disability (someone who is wheelchair bound). Overflow incontinence is when the bladder doesn't empty properly. Mixed incontinence is when two or more types of incontinence occur at once. Transient incontinence is leakage that occurs for a short time due to illness or infection.

There can be simple or more complex causes of urinary incontinence. A simple cause of urinary incontinence may be a bladder or urinary tract infection. In this case the incontinence usually resolves itself when the infection is over. Constipation or certain medications are also short term causes of urinary incontinence. Pregnancy and delivery complications can cause urinary incontinence. During pregnancy the baby puts pressure on the bladder and pelvic muscles. Also there may be damage to the bladder control nerves. This form of urinary incontinence will often resolve itself, however if you have problems for longer than six weeks after your delivery speak to your doctor. Changes due to menopause or aging may also cause bladder control problems.

If you are experiencing urinary incontinence seek the advice of your doctor. It is a difficult subject to approach but it is more difficult to live with. There are treatment options. You so not have to live with urinary incontinence.