Women, in particular, suffer from incontinence–they are two times more likely than men to experience the condition. Recent data shows that one in three women over the age of 18 suffers from incontinence–that’s some 200 million women worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Why are women affected at such a disproportionate rate? Pregnancy and childbirth, menopause and the anatomical structure of the female urinary tract all account for the difference.
Many people incorrectly believe that incontinence is an inevitable part of aging. Others mistakenly believe that having frequent sex and drinking large amounts of water can put one at risk for developing symptoms. In reality, any urine leakage is abnormal.
So what are the major causes? Pregnancy and childbirth are the two most common, since a full abdomen can directly apply pressure to the bladder. Others include neurologic injury (which can be seen in diabetics), birth defects, strokes, multiple sclerosis and physical problems associated with aging. Incontinence in women typically occurs because of problems with the muscles that help to hold or release urine.
There are several types of incontinence with different causes and treatments–making you receive a proper medical evaluation if you suffer from the condition. A doctor will first review your symptoms and medical history, before performing one or several diagnostics. These tests include a stress test in which you relax, then cough vigorously as the doctor watches for loss of urine, a urinalysis where the urine is tested for evidence of infection or urinary stones, blood tests, ultrasound, cystoscopy in which a tiny camera is used to see inside of the urethra and bladder and urodynamics, which measures the pressure inside of the bladder and the flow of urine.
Those silently suffering from incontinence should be encouraged by the many effective treatments that are readily available. Kegel exercises are often used to strengthen or retrain the muscles located on the floor of the pelvis and those associated with the bladder. Doctors have also used brief doses of electrical stimulation to help strengthen these weakened muscles. Timed voiding, in which a regular schedule for urination is established, can help condition the muscles to avoid accidents. There are also prescription medications that can prevent the contractions of an overactive bladder as well as tightening muscles at the bladder outlet to prevent leakage.
Surgery is often the final option when the problem is severe or the more conservative treatments have failed. While discussing urinary incontinence remains a source of embarrassment for many women, the conversation sure beats never being able to laugh or sneeze without worry again.
