Urinary incontinence affects both men and women, though women are twice as likely to develop the condition due to factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Stress incontinence is defined as the accidental release of urine, whether from sneezing, laughing, or coughing. The issue is also described as urge incontinence, or the sudden, overwhelming urge to urinate without making it to the bathroom in time.

Your gynecology team at Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology in Rochester, NY, strongly believe in educating their patients as much as possible, and offer the following information on female incontinence:

Stress Causes

Childbirth, weight gain, and any other problem that stretches and weakens the pelvic muscles results in this urinary problem. The pelvic muscles cannot support the bladder, causing it to drop and weigh on the vagina. Muscles that close the urethra cannot be tightened, resulting in extra bladder pressure when you sneeze, exercise, laugh, and so on.

Urge Causes

Overactive bladder muscles result in urge incontinence, though health professionals still do not know what causes the problem in the first place. Brain conditions such as Parkinson's disease are believed to play a role, with other factors including stress and bladder irritation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis usually includes a physical exam by your gynecologist, as well as tests such as bladder stress and urine tests. The gynecologist will also ask you how many beverages you drink every day, how often you urinate, and how often you experience leaks.

Treatment

While some women require medication and even surgery to correct their condition, many benefit from simple lifestyle changes. Limiting caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, maintaining a healthy weight, refraining from smoking, eating a high-fiber diet, and doing pelvic exercises all help keep incontinence in check.

Discuss your symptoms with one of the talented gynecologists at Greece Obstetrics and Gynecology to obtain the treatment you need. The gynecology center offers a comprehensive range of OB-GYN services, with Dr. Earlando Thomas a member of the Urogynecology team at Rochester Regional Health. Schedule your appointment today by calling (585) 225-6680 or visit the website to learn more about services. Like the gynecology center on Facebook for helpful tips and information.