Incontinence Information
Terms and Definitions Related to Incontinence
Simply click on the links below to learn more about each of the terms and conditions.
Female Incontinence
Female incontinence problems are generally caused by menopause, a urinary tract infection, or pregnancy. Urinary incontinence during or post-menopause may be caused by a drop in estrogen levels (estrogen is responsible for keeping the urethra and bladder healthy). With a urinary tract infection, incontinence may be caused by an infection in the bladder. With pregnancy, the weight of the uterus and movement of the baby may cause Stress Urinary Incontinence.
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Male Incontinence
Although more common among women, there are an estimated 5 million men in the United States who suffer from incontinence. Male urinary incontinence problems are generally caused by prostate abnormalities. They may also be a side effect of a total prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate).
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Stress Urinary Incontinence
Stress Urinary Incontinence is when involuntary leakage or dripping of urine occurs. Most people discover that the leakage “just happens” when doing the simplest things like walking, exercising, laughing, coughing, sneezing, or moving in such a way that puts pressure on your abdomen. Childbirth, constipation, being overweight, or a chronic cough can weaken the pelvic muscles supporting the bladder, causing the bladder to leak.
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Urge Incontinence
Urge Incontinence is when the bladder's muscular wall has a sudden contraction causing an urgency to urinate. Sitting, standing or fast movements can trigger Urge Incontinence. It is common for women to experience this (Female Incontinence) during pregnancy.
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Bladder and/or Fecal Incontinence
Fecal Incontinence is when you have trouble controlling your bowels. Common causes of Fecal Incontinence include diarrhea, constipation, and muscle or nerve damage.
Bladder Incontinence is the loss of control of the bladder. There are numerous causes.
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Overflow Incontinence
Overflow Incontinence is the loss of the feeling that tells you when you need to urinate. The bladder never empties and instead, continuously leaks.
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