Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the unwanted loss of urine. It affects approximately 10 million Americans — or one out of every 25 — regardless of sex or age. The major types of incontinence are urgency incontinence, stress incontinence and overflow incontinence. Though some people experience aspects of all three, successful treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis.

Urgency incontinence is an unwanted loss of urine associated with an abrupt and strong urge to urinate — and often the inability to get to the bathroom quickly enough. It can involve severe frequency of urination and even bedwetting, regardless of age.

Stress incontinence is an unwanted loss of urine when running or exercising, and sometimes when simply getting out of a chair or walking. It also frequently occurs during sudden movements or when coughing, sneezing or laughing.

Overflow incontinence is an unwanted loss of urine that occurs when people are unable to fully empty the bladder and involves a frequent or constant dribbling of urine.
 

How is urinary incontinance evaluated?

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, we're here to help. To get started, we'll ask you to provide a list of all medications you're taking as well as a complete medical history. Basic tests include a physical examination, urinalysis, and careful analyses of your urination patterns and the characteristics of your incontinence.

After an evaluation of your condition, the doctor will decide what treatment is best for you.
 

What are the treatment options for urinary incontinance?

Every treatment is created to meet your needs and diagnosis. Often, we'll provide you with multiple treatment options, and it will be up to you, with your urologist's help, to decide which option to try first.