Urinary incontinence is a condition that occurs when the muscles in the bladder relax and cause leaking or uncontrolled urination. While this problem can be difficult to manage, understanding the cause will help you take steps to prevent or treat it. The skilled team at Medical Center Urology in High Point, NC, specializes in the comprehensive treatment of bladder conditions for both men and women. Here, they discuss a few of the common causes of this condition.

What Causes Urinary Incontinence?

1. Age

As you age, the muscles that support the bladder weaken, which can increase the risk of urinary incontinence and the frequent urge to urinate. For males, the bladder is surrounded by the prostate gland, which releases fluid to protect the sperm. It is common for the prostate to enlarge with age, which leads to issues with incontinence. 

2. Pregnancy

Pregnancy triggers many hormonal changes and requires the woman to carry around the weight of the fetus. This can weaken the muscles that support the bladder, causing frequent and unexpected urination. Training with pelvic floor exercises throughout your pregnancy can help treat this symptom. Kegels strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus, bladder, and rectum. 

3. Stress

Stress-related urinary incontinence is the most common type suffered by women. Any movement or activity, such as coughing or laughing, can cause urine to leak from the urethra. It’s often caused by menstruation, menopause, or even pelvic surgery, but it can also be the result of a weak sphincter muscle, which is located at the neck of the bladder. 

If you suffer from urinary incontinence, don’t wait to seek treatment. For leading urinary specialists in North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad region, turn to the team at Medical Center Urology. They are dedicated to providing quality care to help improve the lives of their patients. Call (336) 882-0220 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information about their services.