Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control that leads to urine leakage. It can happen when you laugh, cough, sneeze, exercise, or feel a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. While many people think this is just a normal part of aging, it is not something you have to live with.

Millions of women experience urinary incontinence, and many never talk to a doctor about it. The good news is that there are effective treatments that can greatly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Types of Urinary Incontinence

There are several types of urinary incontinence, and knowing which type you have helps guide treatment.

Stress incontinence happens when pressure is placed on the bladder. This can occur during coughing, laughing, lifting, or exercising.
Urge incontinence causes a strong, sudden need to urinate that is hard to control. Some people may not make it to the bathroom in time.
Mixed incontinence is a combination of stress and urge incontinence.
Overflow incontinence happens when the bladder does not empty completely, leading to frequent dribbling.

Common Causes

Urinary incontinence can develop for many reasons, including:

Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth
Weak pelvic floor muscles
Menopause and hormonal changes
Aging
Chronic coughing
Obesity
Nerve damage or medical conditions
Loss of estrogen during menopause can weaken bladder and pelvic tissues, making leakage more likely.

Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms may include:

Leaking urine during physical activity
Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Waking up multiple times at night to use the bathroom
Feeling like the bladder does not fully empty

If these symptoms interfere with daily activities, social plans, or sleep, it is time to seek care.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of incontinence. Options may include:

Pelvic floor therapy to strengthen muscles
Bladder training techniques
Lifestyle changes, such as fluid and diet adjustments
Hormonal or non-hormonal therapies
Minimally invasive procedures

Many patients see improvement with non-surgical treatments. A personalized plan can help restore bladder control and confidence.

FAQs

Urinary incontinence is common, especially after childbirth or during menopause, but it is not something you have to accept as normal. Many women find relief with the right treatment.

Gynecologists and women’s health specialists commonly evaluate and treat urinary incontinence. Care may include pelvic floor therapy, medications, or other treatment options based on your symptoms.

Most patients do not need surgery. Many see improvement with non-surgical treatments such as pelvic floor therapy, bladder training, or lifestyle changes.

Yes. Hormonal changes during menopause can weaken bladder and pelvic tissues, which may increase leakage or urgency.

If bladder leakage affects your daily activities, sleep, or confidence, it is a good idea to schedule an evaluation.

Urinary incontinence is common, but you do not have to live with it. Help is available, and treatment options are tailored to your needs and comfort level.

If bladder leakage is affecting your daily life, confidence, or sleep, the team at Fairfax Gynecology Group is here to help.

Call Fairfax Gynecology Group today to schedule an appointment and start feeling more in control again.