Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) is a common condition that affects many people, particularly women. SUI is characterized by involuntary urine leakage when there is pressure placed on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, jumping, or even laughing. This is most commonly due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, which are responsible for supporting the bladder and the urethra. In healthy individuals, the pelvic floor muscles tighten to prevent urine from leaking out during pressure or strain. However, when these muscles are weakened, they cannot provide the required support, leading to urine leakage. SUI can be a very uncomfortable and embarrassing condition, and it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, it can be very distressing and can lead to social isolation. SUI can affect both men and women, but it is more prevalent in women, especially after childbirth, menopause, or pelvic surgery.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, especially women. It is characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine during activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. There are several factors that can cause SUI. One of the most common causes is weakened pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are responsible for supporting the bladder and the urethra. When they become weak, they are unable to keep the urethra closed during physical activities, leading to urinary leakage. It can also be caused by intrinsic sphincter deficiency where the urinary sphincter is weakened usually due to prior surgery or neurologic conditions.

Risk factors:

• Pregnancy/childbirth – These events put significant pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, causing them to become weak or damaged.
• Age is another factor that can put you at risk for SUI. As women get older, their pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to urinary incontinence.
• Obesity
• Chronic coughing
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, connective tissue disorders and multiple sclerosis
• Medications such as diuretics and blood pressure medications

Diagnosing stress urinary incontinence (SUI) involves a thorough physical examination and a review of your medical history. You will be asked about the symptoms you are experiencing, how often they occur, and when they first started. In addition to the physical exam and medical history review, you may get a urine test to check for infection or blood in the urine. Occasionally further testing is needed. Once a diagnosis is made, we can work together to develop an individualized treatment plan.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition that affects many women. It is characterized by leakage of urine when there is pressure on the bladder, such as when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. The main symptom of SUI is involuntary urine leakage during these activities. It is important to note that SUI is not the same as urge incontinence, which is characterized by a sudden and intense need to urinate. Many women with SUI avoid physical activities and social situations due to the fear of urine leakage. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are bothered make an appointment today