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| It is estimated that more than 25 million Americans suffer urinary and/ or fecal incontinence. Incontinence can be improved and sometimes cured with proper treatment. |
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The first step is to see your healthcare professional for diagnosis. It is often helpful to bring information with you about the frequency and amount of urine leakage. A sample bladder diary  (82 KB - 1 page) is provided for your convenience. Fill it out and bring it to your appointment with your healthcare provider. |
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| There are many reasons the bladder doesn't hold urine. Some reasons include: Neurologic injury or disease, weakened pelvic floor muscles (the muscles that hold the urethra in place), constipation, urinary tract infections, the birthing process, loss of estrogen in menopause, prostate surgery, and even some medications. Whatever the reason, the effect of not being able to control bladder function can lead to embarrassment, skin care problems, and even urinary tract disease. |
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| Types of Urinary Incontinence |
Common Symptoms |
Common Causes |
| Stress |
Urine loss during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing or lifting. |
Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, pelvic radiation, surgical trauma. |
| Urge |
A sudden need to urinate, occasionally with large volume urine loss. Can also exist without incontinence. |
Unknown, but often associated with pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, pelvic trauma, and neurologic disease such as Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis. |
| Mixed |
Combination of stress and urge forms. |
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| Overflow |
A frequent dribble of urine as a result of inefficient bladder emptying. |
Many causes such as spinal cord injury, diabetes, neurological damage, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, enlarged prostate. |
| Reflex |
Loss of urine without warning. |
Unknown causes but may be associated nerve damage. |
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