Urinary Incontinence
Incontinence is the unwanted loss of urine and/or stool. It can be an unpleasant and embarrassing problem. It is common, and ranges in severity from occasional slight leaking with coughing or sneezing to a sudden severe urge to urinate that overwhelms your ability to get to the toilette on time.
Causes of Urinary Incontinence:
- Thinning and drying of the skin in the vagina or urethra, especially after menopause
- Weakened pelvic muscles
- Certain medicines
- Build-up of stool in the bowels
- Not being able to move around
- Urinary tract infection
- Problems such as diabetes or high calcium levels
- Obesity
Causes of Bowel Incontinence:
- Injury to the anal muscles or nerves
- Medications
- Improper diet
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Chronic constipation
Most women with urinary or bowel incontinence can be cured or significantly improved with appropriate treatment. The solution may include lifestyle modification, physical therapy, medication, or surgery.
If you suffer from incontinence, discuss your symptoms with your Women’s Care provider; they will help you find the best treatment that will allow you to return to a better quality of life.
