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Bladder HealthUrinary incontinence and its causesUrinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. While it is common in older women, it can happen to women of any age. In fact, urinary incontinence affects nearly one out of four women between the ages of 15 and 64. It is a condition that ranges from mild leakage to uncontrollable and embarrassing wetting.Urinary incontinence is a major health problem because it can affect your lifestyle, self-esteem, relationships, and overall health. Remember that this is a medical problem and it's not your fault. Millions of women have the same problem. Don't believe people who tell you that urine leakage is normal. It isn't. Most of the time it can be improved if not cured. There are many causes of urinary incontinence, but the most common are things that either weaken what are called the “pelvic floor” muscles (pregnancy, childbirth, or hormone changes during menopause) or make them too active (some surgeries or medications). Prescription or nonprescription medicines can also affect the pelvic floor muscles and cause or contribute to urinary incontinence. Some of these medications include medicines that treat high blood pressure or the common cold, medicines that are used to help you relax or sleep, and water pills or diuretics. If you think your medicines may be contributing to your bladder control problems, talk to your health care provider before you stop taking any of them.
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