Urinary incontinence is referred to by many names. This common issue overwhelmingly affects women, with fifty percent of women having some type of incontinence in their lifetime. Because urinary incontinence is an umbrella term that encompasses many different types of incontinence, different symptoms and has various treatments, it is important to understand the main types of urinary incontinence that affect women.
Types of Urinary Incontinence:
- Stress Incontinence: One of the most common and well-known types of urinary incontinence is often seen in pregnant women and women who have had children. Stress incontinence is caused by a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and the bladder leakage response is triggered by laughter, sneezing, or sudden, vigorous movement.
- Overflow Incontinence: This type of incontinence occurs when the bladder does not empty correctly or completely resulting in a ‘dribble’ of urine.
- Functional Incontinence: This form of incontinence, unlike many others, is caused by other physical or mental issues or disorders that cause difficulty with bladder control. These conditions include but are not limited to: Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, Alzheimer’s and a host of mental issues.
- Urge Incontinence: This type of incontinence is also referred to as overactive bladder and pertains to an urge to urinate that is so strong it often prevents the person affected from getting to the restroom in time. It is often caused by nerve damage in the bladder or issues that affect the body’s nervous system as a whole.
Although there are other types of urinary incontinence that affect women, these are the most common.
Treatment Through Lifestyle Change:
Many women have experience relief or a decrease in symptoms of urinary incontinence with lifestyle changes. The following changes are considered to have a positive impact of treating urinary incontinence:
- Exercise and maintain a healthy weight
- Be mindful of water consumption: Limit water consumption in the evening and late at night
- Avoid constipation: Constipation has a profound impact on the urinary tract. Maintain good bowel health.
- Quit smoking: Smoking cessation will reduce the instances of stress incontinence
If necessary, medical treatment options are available. A consultation with our team can help you explore your.
If you are frustrated with female urinary incontinence, contact us today at Women’s OB/GYN Center and schedule a consultation. Our team proudly serves Texas from our offices in Pasadena and Webster.
