Stress urinary incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence is one of the most common types of bladder leakage in women. It occurs when physical movement or activity—such as coughing, sneezing, or exercise—puts pressure on the bladder, leading to leakage.
The good news is that effective treatments are available, and you do not have to live with these symptoms.
What is stress urinary incontinence?
Stress urinary incontinence is the leakage of urine that occurs when physical pressure is placed on the bladder. This happens when the muscles and supportive tissues around the bladder and urethra are not strong enough to keep the urethra closed during activity.
This type of leakage is triggered by movements that increase pressure in the abdomen, such as:
Coughing
Sneezing
Laughing
Exercising
Lifting heavy objects
Bending or sudden movement
It is important to note that “stress” in this case refers to physical stress on the bladder, not emotional stress.
Normally, the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding structures support the bladder and help keep it closed. When these supports weaken, even small increases in pressure can cause urine to leak.
Stress urinary incontinence can range from occasional small leaks to more frequent or bothersome symptoms that affect daily activities, exercise, and overall quality of life.
Symptoms
Symptoms may start gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.
Leakage when coughing, sneezing, or laughing
Leakage during exercise or physical activity
Urine leakage when lifting or bending
Small amounts of leakage throughout the day
Causes
Stress urinary incontinence is typically caused by weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and support structures of the bladder and urethra.
Common causes include:
Childbirth
Aging and hormonal changes
Prior pelvic surgery
Chronic coughing
Repeated heavy lifting
When these support structures weaken, the bladder is less able to stay closed during physical activity.
Diagnosis & Evaluation
There are several tools used to diagnose urinary incontinence, but the most important are a patient’s history and physical exam.
During your visit, we will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a focused pelvic exam to better understand the cause of leakage.
In our practice, we often utilize an objective bladder test called urodynamics. This test evaluates how the bladder functions during filling and storage, as well as how the urethra responds to pressure during activities such as coughing and voiding.
Urodynamics also helps assess how the bladder empties. Some patients do not fully empty their bladder, and identifying this is important in developing an effective treatment plan.
In addition, patients may be asked to complete a voiding diary over a 24-hour period at home. This records:
Fluid intake
Urine output
Timing of urination
Episodes of leakage
This information provides valuable insight into bladder function and helps guide individualized treatment.
Our goal is to accurately identify the cause of symptoms and create a treatment plan tailored to each patient.
Treatment
Treatment depends on severity and individual goals, and may include:
Non-surgical options:
Pelvic floor therapy (Kegel exercises)
Lifestyle modifications
Pessary devices for support
Minimally invasive and surgical options:
Urethral bulking injections
Midurethral sling procedures
Advanced reconstructive options when needed
Dr. Veronikis offers a range of treatment options and will tailor care based on each patient’s symptoms and goals.
WHEN TO SEE A SPECIALIST
If urinary leakage is affecting your daily life, exercise, or confidence, it may be time to seek evaluation.
Many women delay treatment, but effective solutions are available and can significantly improve quality of life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of stress urinary incontinence, schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.