Urinary incontinence (UI) is the involuntary excretion of urine from your body. Women especially suffer from this condition. Some women may lose a few drops of urine while running or coughing. Others may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate and then release a large amount of urine. Urinary incontinence can range from slightly annoying to totally debilitating. For some women, the risk of public embarrassment keeps them from enjoying many activities with their family and friends. They try to avoid the embarrassment by not going out and avoiding contact with people, as they are afraid that other people will notice their problem. For them, UI becomes a huge social and emotional problem.
It is important to realise that urinary incontinence is a medical problem for which your doctor or nurse can help you find a solution. The key is not to feel ashamed when you suffer from UI and seek help. You are not alone! Millions of women have experienced loss of bladder control and found a solution.
No single treatment works for everyone, but most women can be treated without surgery. The treatment you select depends on your lifestyle and your preferences. Many women try the simpler treatment options first, such as changing a few habits and doing exercises to strengthen the muscles that hold urine in the bladder. If these behavioural treatments do not work, medicines or vaginal devices can be used. Sometimes mild electrical stimulation to the pelvic nerves may help. And for some women, surgery is the best solution.
Getting the right treatment is just as important as getting an accurate diagnosis.
causes of incontinence>>
Item code: NPR/08-0058
Date of Preparation: July 2009
