Urinary stress incontinence is an issue many women face. It can be embarrassing and difficult to manage, which is why it’s important to understand this condition. There are luckily a wide variety of treatment options to explore. Here’s everything you need to know about this condition. 

A Guide to Stress Incontinence

What Is It?

Stress incontinence occurs when a woman urinates unintentionally. It has nothing to do with mental stress; instead, it relates to pressure being placed on the bladder. When a person sneezes, coughs, or lifts a heavy item, a small amount of urine may leak out because of this pressure. This happens because the muscles and tissue that support the bladder are weak. They can’t close the urethra, leading to urine leakage. Childbirth is a common cause of weakening, though obesity, smoking, and illnesses can contribute.

What Are the Symptoms?

Stress incontinence is marked by unintentional urination during certain activities. It can be a very small or large amount. See a urologist if you urinate when:

• Standing
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Having intercourse
• Lifting heavy items
• Laughing

You may not urinate an equal amount when doing all of these activities. A urologist can help you understand what’s causing the incontinence and reduce urine leakage.

How Is It Treated? 

Stress incontinence is usually treated by strengthening the pelvic floor with exercises. The urologist may suggest lifestyle changes, such as avoiding drinking, losing weight, and training the bladder. No medications are approved to treat the condition in the U.S. In more serious cases, a vaginal pessary or insert can be placed in the urethra to support the pelvic floor. There are also surgical options, including injecting gel to bulk the area around the urethra, lifting supportive tissue, or creating a sling to support the urethra. 

If you have stress incontinence, contact Medical Center Urology. This Guilford County, NC, practice is led by Dr. Richard Puschinsky, who brings over 25 years of experience to patients. He provides prostate cancer screenings, treatments for infertility and erectile dysfunction, and kidney stone treatments, which you can learn more about on his website. Call (336) 882-0220 to schedule an exam.