Stress incontinence

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis

Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies Coping and support

Definition

Incontinence is the unintentional loss of urine. Stress incontinence is prompted by a physical movement or activity, such as coughing, sneezing or heavy lifting, that puts pressure — stress — on your bladder. Stress incontinence is not related to psychological stress.

Stress incontinence is much more common in women than in men.

If you have stress incontinence, you may feel embarrassed, isolate yourself or limit your work and social life. A combination of treatments may enable you to manage stress incontinence and improve your overall well-being.

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Symptoms