Urogynecology: Urinary Incontinence

  • Involuntary leakage of urine is called urinary incontinence.

     
  • Urinary incontinence is a common problem that affects 1 in 3 women in their lifetime.

     
  • For some women leakage is associated with coughing, laughing, sneezing or running. While in other women it mainly occurs on the way to the bathroom. In some women, they may not know when the leakage occurs they can only feel that their undergarments are wet.

     
  • Leakage can range from small spurts to larger amounts. Some women must use pads or adult diapers because the leakage is so severe, which can be embarrassing. They may even stop doing things they enjoy such as exercising or gardening because of the leakage. This can lead to depression and social isolation if not treated.

     
  • However, once the condition is properly diagnosed there are a number of treatment options available to help women get back to their normal activities.