As people age, several challenging conditions can begin to impact the body, including urinary incontinence. Characterized by loss of bladder control, this issue can be embarrassing and frustrating. Yet, it doesn’t have to be an inevitable aspect of aging. If you’re a female experiencing bladder leakage, here’s some basic information to prepare you for an informed conversation with your gynecologist.

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Involuntary urine leakage is the primary defining criteria for urinary incontinence. There are several specific types of incontinence, including:

• Stress Incontinence: This condition causes leaks to occur when the bladder experiences pressure from factors such as heavy lifting, sneezing, laughing, and pregnancy.
• Urge Incontinence: This type of incontinence is characterized by a sudden, powerful urge to urinate, followed by involuntary urine loss or the constant need to urinate when sleeping.
• Overflow Incontinence: When the bladder fails to empty all the way, frequent drips of urine may escape.
• Functional Incontinence: Individuals are unable to make it to the bathroom in time due to physical or mental impairments.

It’s also possible for individuals to have mixed incontinence—a combination of the types listed above.

What Causes It?

Incontinence can have several causes. For example, those suffering from functional incontinence, as well as severe arthritis, may be unable to reach the toilet on time. Infections, neurological disorders, and diabetes can contribute to urge incontinence.

In other cases, aging of the bladder muscle, the decrease in estrogen caused by menopause, and even pregnancy-related changes, including childbirth, can cause incontinence. Pelvic floor changes following a hysterectomy may also contribute to the condition.

How Is It Treated?

The treatment for incontinence can vary based on its type. Your gynecologist might recommend a pessary ring to help support the bladder and prevent overflow incontinence. Behavior modifications and pelvic floor exercises can also help control symptoms. If incontinence persists after several lifestyle modifications are explored, your gynecologist may be able to recommend solutions such as medications or surgery.

If you’re experiencing persistent urinary incontinence, allow the team from Genesee Valley Obstetrics & Gynecology PC to help. Located in Rochester, NY, this gynecologist’s office provides solutions for a broad range of women’s health concerns, including surgical interventions and medications. Find out more about their options for treating urinary incontinence online, or call (585) 232-3210 to schedule an appointment.