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Urinary Incontinence

An involuntary loss of urine that seriously affects quality of life but is treatable.

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 Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is defined as involuntary loss of urine. There are three main types: stress incontinence (leakage with coughing, sneezing, exercise), urge incontinence (leakage with sudden urgency), and mixed type.

While stress incontinence is more common in women, incontinence after radical prostatectomy is an important issue in men. Approximately 25-35% of older women experience incontinence.

Incontinence, which leads to social restriction, depression, and reduced quality of life, can be controlled with effective treatments. Urodynamic evaluation guides the correct treatment.

Symptoms

Leakage during coughing, sneezing, or exercise (stress type)
Leakage with sudden, severe urgency (urge type)
Nighttime frequency and leakage (nocturnal incontinence)
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying and drip-by-drip leakage (overflow type)
Constantly wet clothes or the need to use pads

Risk Factors

Female sex and number of deliveries
Menopause and estrogen deficiency
Obesity
Prostate surgery (in men)
Neurological diseases (MS, Parkinson's, stroke)
Aging and decreased bladder capacity

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • If urinary incontinence causes social isolation or pad use
  • New-onset or progressively worsening incontinence
  • If blood in urine accompanies
  • Inability to fully empty the bladder and overflow incontinence
  • Persistent incontinence after prostatectomy

Treatment Methods

01
Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel): first-line in stress incontinence
02
Bladder training: gradual extension of voiding intervals in urge incontinence
03
Anticholinergic drugs (oxybutynin, solifenacin): overactive bladder and urge incontinence
04
Beta-3 agonist (mirabegron): in those who cannot tolerate anticholinergics
05
Mid-urethral sling (TVT/TOT): minimally invasive surgery in female stress incontinence
06
Artificial urinary sphincter or sling: in male post-prostatectomy incontinence

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.

Learn About Üroloji Department

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.