October 2025
Urinary incontinence, the involuntary loss of urine, affects about 13 million adults in the U.S. Women are about twice as likely as men to experience it, especially after childbirth or during menopause.
The two most common types are:
- Stress incontinence occurs when there’s extra pressure on the bladder, such as when exercising, sneezing, coughing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects.
- Urge incontinence: When the urge to urinate comes on so quickly that you don’t have time to get to the bathroom.
Incontinence can happen due to weakened pelvic muscles, childbirth, changes during menopause, and dementia. Or from urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, or constipation.
How to treat urinary incontinence
Simple lifestyle changes can help, including:
- Strengthening pelvic muscles. Practice Kegels by contracting and relaxing the same pelvic floor muscle you’d use to stop the flow of urine.
- Avoiding triggers. Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.
- Quitting smoking. Chronic coughing from smoking weakens pelvic muscles.
- Making timed bathroom trips. Visit the bathroom at regular intervals to prevent accidents.
- Losing weight. Reducing excess weight can relieve pressure on your bladder.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, check your local pharmacy for products like protective underwear or panty liners. You can also ask your doctor about any medical treatments that could help.
