What is Urinary Incontinence (UI)?
The inability to maintain control urine leakage as a result of a stress event i.e. laughing (Stress Incontinence), or a sudden need to immediately urinate (Urge Incontinence). 50% of women will at some point in their life experience some form of UI. This can severely impede an individual’s social and physical activities.
Common Misconceptions:
- It is normal to have urinary leakage after childbirth
- It is normal to have urinary leakage as you age
- There is nothing you can do about urinary leakage
- Kegels will solve all incontinence issues
Risk Factors:
- Female
- Obesity
- Post menopause (hormone changes)
- Over 40 (1 in 3)
- Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Multiparous: having had more than one child
- Obstetric trauma (forceps, suction, tearing)
- Gynaecological or Urinary surgery
- Chronic Illness
- Medication
- Smoking
- Chronic straining
- Radical Prostatectomy for men
- Prostate enlargement
The muscles that comprise the pelvic floor are vital in maintaining urinary continence. They act as a sphincter, provide support, and stability. While a weak pelvic floor could be a cause for UI, it is not always the answer. Individuals at the other end of the spectrum with a hypertonic pelvic floor can also experience UI. Therefore, a thorough assessment by a pelvic floor physical therapist is needed to determine the root cause of your UI and create a personalized treatment plan.
Book your appointment with a pelvic health physiotherapist today.
