Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. Over time or as a result of damage, our pelvic floor muscles can weaken, resulting in a lack of control. Different kinds of urinary incontinence can impact people in various ways.
- Stress incontinence: These kinds of leaks happen when you put sudden pressure on your bladder. Common acts include coughing, sneezing, or exerting yourself by performing heavy lifting.
- Urge incontinence: A type of incontinence characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, which may be followed by the involuntary loss of urine. Urge incontinence is frequent throughout the night, with infections or more serious conditions like diabetes as the leading causes.
- Overflow incontinence: Urine leaks from an overfilled bladder, often as a result of incomplete emptying.
- Functional incontinence: Your bladder functions normally, but physical or mental limitations prevent you from reaching the restroom on time.