The Truth About Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)

SUI can happen when pelvic tissues and muscles, which support the bladder and urethra, become weak and allow the bladder “neck“ (where the bladder and urethra intersect) to descend during bursts of physical activity. This descent can prevent the urethra from working properly to control the flow of urine. SUI can also occur when the sphincter muscle that controls the urethra weakens. The weakened sphincter muscle is not able to stop the flow of urine under normal circumstances and when there is an increase in abdominal pressure. Weakness may occur from pregnancy, childbirth, aging, or prior pelvic surgery. Other risk factors for SUI include chronic coughing or straining, obesity and smoking. It is important for you to consult with your health care provider for proper diagnosis of SUI. Do this so it will not happen again: