Causes of Stress Incontinence in Women
While stress urinary incontinence is more common as women age, it is not caused simply by aging. A number of factors influence SUI including:
- Pregnancy and childbirth, which can stretch, weaken or even damage pelvic floor muscles
- Neurological conditions that cause damage to the nerves including multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, and spinal cord injuries
- Obesity
- Chronic cough, oftentimes caused by smoking
- Certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and caffeine
- Menopause, due to decreased hormones
- Pelvic surgery or radiation treatment
Symptoms of Stress Incontinence
Common symptoms of SUI in women include:
- Urine leaks when you cough, laugh, sneeze, exercise, lift heavy objects, etc.
- Urine leakage worsens when your bladder is full
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