Stress causes urinary incontinence in women

Over 20 per cent of women suffer from urinary incontinence when their pelvic floor muscles become weak post child-birth. Dr K. Lalita, senior uro-gynecologist at Yashoda Hospitals, says, “This condition is found in women between 30 to 35 years of age where they experience a small leak of urine while coughing, sneezing, laughing or dancing. There are some who suffer from it when they are close to their menstrual cycle.”

Some women develop an overactive bladder once they cross 40 years of age due to hormonal changes or menopause. This condition also develops in women at the age of 60 years due to the weakening of muscles in the body. Aside from this, patients who have back problems, cancer patients, or patients on heavy dosage of drugs also suffer from urinary incontinence.

It is important to seek medical aid in the beginning, say urologists, as medicines and exercises can help strengthen pelvic muscles.

Urologist Dr A. Preetam from Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital, said, “Controlling urine for too long tends to weaken the bladder. Women suffer from a weak bladder after child birth if they do not strengthen the muscles with pelvic exercises. “

If identified early, pelvic exercises and medicines can help control this condition. Surgery and Botox can also help control urinary incontinence. Dr Pranati Reddy of Rainbow Children’s Hospital said, “Botox is a last resort. A botox session lasts six to nine months and only provides temporary relief.”