Incontinence Specialist

What is incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is a medical condition characterized by the inability to control your bladder, causing urine to leak. The amount of urine you leak may range from a small dribble after a sneeze to such a strong urge to urinate that you simply can’t make it to the bathroom.

Incontinence affects both men and women, and due to the nature of the condition, many people have a hard time talking about it — even with a medical provider.

What are the types of incontinence?

There are four types of incontinence, including:

• Overactive bladder (OAB): Also called urgency incontinence, when your brain tells you to urinate although you have an empty bladder

• Overflow incontinence: Leaking urine because your bladder is too full

• Stress urinary incontinence (SUI): Weakened pelvic muscles that can’t hold the urine, so it escapes

• Mixed incontinence: A mix of SUI and OAB

SUI is the most common cause of urinary incontinence and more often affects women than men. The leakage usually occurs during activity, such as walking, bending, or lifting. Urine leakage after a sneeze or cough is also attributed to SUI.

How do I know I have incontinence?

Symptoms of urinary incontinence vary and usually coincide with the type. Common symptoms include:

• Small leakage after coughing, sneezing, or exercising
• Sudden urge to urinate and an inability to hold it in
• Frequent dribbling of urine

You may experience temporary incontinence after an acute medical condition such as a urinary tract infection or constipation or after eating or drinking certain foods such as spicy foods or caffeinated beverages.  

Are there factors that might increase my risk of incontinence?

Yes, certain factors may increase your risk of incontinence, including:

• Pregnancy
• Menopause
• Enlarged prostate
• Prostate cancer
• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis

What treatments are available for incontinence?

The medical professionals at Fog City Urology offer a number of treatment options to help you manage your incontinence, including:

• Medication
• Surgery
• Catheters

As a medical practice that offers the most advanced treatment options, Dr. Hernandez and Dr. Grady may recommend MonaLisa® Touch for some women experiencing incontinence. The laser treatment works best for women experiencing mild urinary incontinence.

If you’re dealing with incontinence, call the office or book an appointment online for an evaluation.