Prof Arup K. Mandal, Head of the Urology Department, PGI, talks about urinary incontinence in women:

Incontinence, put in simple terms, is a state in which a person loses control over his/her bladder, leading to involuntary urination. It could either be a temporary phase, lasting a few hours or days, or, in extreme cases, can assume embarrassing proportions.

Incontinence is of various types and can strike any person, at any stage. The condition can be prevented or treated, yet it has been a cause for concern because it can lead to various other ailments. A stressed and sedentary lifestyle adds to the problem.

What are the main causes of urinary incontinence? Thinning and drying of the skin in the vagina or urethra, especially after menopause, weakened pelvic muscles, certain medicines, build-up of stool in the bowels, not being able to move around, urinary tract infection and diabetes are some of the major causes.

Types of urinary incontinence: There are two types of urinary incontinence. One is called stress incontinence, which occurs when urine leaks because of sudden pressure on your lower stomach muscles. Such pressures are there when you cough, laugh, lift something or exercise. It usually occurs when pelvic muscles are weakened. The other is the urge incontinence that occurs when the need to urinate is felt too fast — before you can get to a toilet. Your body may only give you a warning of a few seconds before you urinate. It is most common in the elderly.

How to prevent this disease? The best way to prevent and delay incontinence is to maintain a diet rich in protein and fibre, and have a regular exercise regimen. Young mothers should ensure that they regularly perform pelvic floor exercises to keep the urinary tract and bladder healthy.

Will medicine or surgery help? Medicine helps in some cases. In the case of women who have mild stress incontinence, surgery, too, can be helpful. It is usually done if other things haven’t worked or if incontinence is severe. Surgery: A number of different procedures are available. Less invasive surgery to implant a sling to support the urethra may be suitable for some women.

Source: tribuneindia.com