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Incontinence...
- is defined as an unexpected and involuntary release of urine, feces or gas
- is more than just a medical condition, since it affects the person's
emotional and social well-being
- is a common problem that is NOT a normal part of aging
- causes women to restrict social contact and activities
- is frequently under-diagnosed and under-reported because it is such a
sensitive issue
Resources to help you:
Facts you should know:
- 1 in 4 women age 30-59 have experienced an episode of urinary incontinence
- Fecal incontinence is the 2nd most common cause for institutionalizing an
elderly person
- It is treatable
Contributing factors:
- Smoking/coughing
- Obesity
- High impact physical activities
- Chronic neurological diseases
- Immobility
- Constipation
- Effects of medications
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Urinary or vaginal infection
- Estrogen hormone depletion
- Weakened sphincter muscles
- Weakened bladder muscles
- Pelvic injury or surgery
Types of incontinence:
- Stress incontinence -- involuntary loss of urine when sneezing, coughing
or physical activity
- Urge incontinence -- a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate
- Overflow incontinence -- a leakage of small amounts of urine from an
overdistended bladder
- Mixed incontinence -- multiple forms of incontinence at the same time
- Fecal incontinence -- involuntary loss of feces or gas
What can I do?
- Talk to your health care provider about any concerns you may have
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