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Stress Urinary Incontinence

Evaluation and treatment steps for involuntary urine leakage with increased intra-abdominal pressure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Stress Urinary Incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is involuntary urine leakage during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercise, or heavy lifting when the bladder is full. The main pathomechanisms are sphincter mechanism insufficiency (intrinsic sphincter deficiency) and/or hypermobility of the urethrovesical junction.

It is the most common type of urinary incontinence in women (50%). Birth trauma, postmenopausal estrogen decline, and pelvic floor weakness are the main causes. In men, it can develop after radical prostatectomy due to sphincter damage.

Stress incontinence is confirmed and detrusor overactivity is excluded by urodynamics. Conservative treatment is the first line; surgical options are reserved for resistant cases.

Symptoms

Urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise
Need to use pads/protection
Avoidance of activity and social restriction
Inability to control urination after radical prostatectomy in men
Wide severity spectrum from minor leakage to severe incontinence

Risk Factors

Vaginal birth (especially instrumental delivery)
Menopause and estrogen deficiency
Obesity
Chronic cough (smoking, asthma)
Radical prostatectomy (in men)
Pelvic radiotherapy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Urinary leakage affecting daily activities or social life
  • Need to use pads
  • Continued urinary leakage after childbirth
  • Persistent incontinence despite 12 months after radical prostatectomy
  • Cases unresponsive to Kegel exercises

Treatment Methods

01
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel): first line, 60-70% improvement
02
Biofeedback and pelvic floor physiotherapy
03
Local estrogen therapy: atrophic mucosa in postmenopausal women
04
Duloxetine: SNRI that increases urethral sphincter tone; moderate-severe SUI
05
Mid-urethral sling (TVT/TOT): surgical gold standard; 80-90% success
06
Artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) or sling in men: after radical prostatectomy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.