Is incontinence part of the normal aging process?
No, it is not a normal part of the aging process and can often be treated. Urinary incontinence is more common in women than in men. It affects 10-25% of women under the age of 65 and 15-30% of women older than 60. The most common type is urge incontinence. It occurs if the muscle wall of the bladder is overactive. This leads to loss or leakage of urine. Stress incontinence occurs when the pressure inside the bladder (which moves out urine) is greater than the pressure in the urethra (which keeps urine in). It causes loss of urine during coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercise. A preliminary diagnosis can be made with a physical examination, history, simple office and laboratory tests. Treatment options include physical therapy, behavioral modifications, medications and surgery. Please see your gynecologist to discuss which options are best for you.
