Incontinence can show up in different ways, depending on the type. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms below, it may help point to which kind of incontinence you’re experiencing.
When you jump, sneeze, laugh, lift heavy objects, or participate in other activities, you experience leakage or difficulty holding your urine.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may indicate stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
Feeling a sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s hard to control.
Needing to urinate frequently (often more than 8 times a day).
Waking up multiple times at night to urinate.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may indicate overactive bladder (OAB).
Experiencing difficulty or hesitancy when starting to urinate, need to strain when urinating, or have a slow urine stream.
Urinating only a small amount, often resulting in frequent trips to the restroom.
Experiencing lower abdominal bloating or discomfort after urinating.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may indicate urinary retention (UR).
Experiencing a sudden urge to pass stool, or an inability to stop it.
Leaking stool during activity, or without awareness.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may indicate bowel incontinence.
Incontinence is a treatable medical condition. Depending on the type, it can develop for different reasons — from changes in the body over time to specific muscle or nerve issues.
SUI occurs when pressure on the bladder causes leakage. This can be related to weakness in the pelvic floor muscles or urethral support. Potential causes include pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, aging, or prostate surgery.
Some people may experience hypermobility or intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) — these are considered types of SUI, not separate causes.
OAB is linked to changes in the nerves or muscles that control the bladder. When these signals don’t work the way they should, the bladder can contract too often or too suddenly, creating a strong urge to urinate.
UR happens when the bladder doesn’t fully empty. This can be due to nerve problems, blockages, or muscle weakness. In men, an enlarged prostate is a common cause. UR may also follow certain surgeries or medical treatments.
Bowel incontinence, also known as bowel leakage, can happen when the muscles or nerves that control the bowel are damaged. Causes may include chronic constipation, pelvic or rectal surgery, or nerve injury.
