Female Urinary Incontinence — It's More Common Than You May Think

While health topics like high blood pressure and low vitamin D are common in discussions in various social settings, we rarely talk about some other issues. Female urinary incontinence is a prime example. 

Female urinary incontinence leaves many women feeling as though they’re the only one experiencing bladder control problems, when it’s actually incredibly common among women. 

For many who live in and around Folsom, California, Timothy Phelan, MD, of Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom, is an invaluable resource when it comes to navigating women’s health issues like urinary incontinence. Maybe it’s time we shed some much-needed light on this common problem. 

Why do we let urinary incontinence embarrass or shame us?

Good question. Maybe it’s because we spend so much time teaching young children how to use the toilet, referring to “accidents” and celebrating potty training success. Or perhaps it’s because urinary incontinence is so common among older women, and we’re not confident as a society about addressing the realities of aging head-on. 

No matter the reason, involuntary loss of bladder control often evokes a sense of shame or embarrassment. With incontinence in women as prevalent as it is, the topic deserves more attention, not less. 

Various studies assert that as many as 50% of American women experience urinary incontinence at some point, with an increasing risk as they near and reach menopause. That means most of the women you know have struggled with incontinence, even if they aren’t talking about it. 

Are there different types of incontinence?

Researchers categorize incontinence four ways. You can experience one or several types of urinary incontinence, and your symptoms can shift and change over time. 

Stress incontinence

Stress incontinence happens when urine leaks while laughing, coughing, exercising, or lifting heavy objects. Anything that places pressure on your bladder can cause involuntary loss of bladder control. 

Urge incontinence

Urge incontinence describes when you experience sudden and intense urges to urinate, followed by leaking urine. Women who have this form of incontinence need to use the restroom frequently, including during the night. 

Functional incontinence

Functional incontinence is when a health condition prevents you from making it to the bathroom in time. Common examples are needing a cane or walker to get to a restroom, or having arthritis in your hands and struggling to remove clothing in time. 

Overflow incontinence

Overflow incontinence develops when you can’t always fully empty your bladder. This form often presents as frequent or ongoing dribbling of urine. 

Any combination of these types is referred to as mixed incontinence. 

Why is urinary incontinence so prevalent?

A number of things can cause or contribute to female urinary incontinence. In some cases, incontinence is only temporary and directly linked to one of the following:

• Caffeine 
• Alcohol
• Certain medications
• High doses of vitamin C
• Chocolate
• Artificial sweeteners
• Spicy or acidic foods

Certain medical conditions can also cause temporary incontinence. Examples include constipation or a urinary tract infection. 

Pregnancy and childbirth are among the most common causes of female urinary incontinence. Your body goes through significant changes as you become a mother, and because your bladder is located close to your uterus, it’s not surprising that urinary function would be affected. 

The aging process is another primary culprit. As the years pass, the connective tissues that hold your bladder and other pelvic organs in place can weaken, causing things to shift out of position and place undue pressure on your bladder. 

Neurological disorders, spine injury, tumors, and other health issues can also lead to urinary incontinence. 

When do I need to seek medical help for urinary incontinence?

It’s important to take action as soon as you notice recurring issues with your bladder control. We have treatments that can help, and no woman should struggle with incontinence on her own. 

Call Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom to find an appointment time, or use the online scheduling page any time to book a visit. 

If you’re still wondering whether you’re the only person you know who is dealing with urinary incontinence, try broaching the subject with friends or family members. You may be surprised to learn just how many women you know share a similar experience.