Overview

Stress incontinence is the accidental release of urine caused by activities that put pressure on your bladder. It may happen most often when you sneeze, cough, laugh, jog, or lift something heavy. It usually doesn't cause major health problems. But it can be embarrassing and interfere with your life.

Treatment can cure or improve your symptoms.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Limit caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. They make you urinate more.
• Try pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises, which tighten and strengthen pelvic muscles. (If doing these exercises causes pain, stop doing them and talk with your doctor.) To do Kegel exercises:
  • Squeeze your muscles as if you were trying not to pass gas. Or squeeze your muscles as if you were stopping the flow of urine. Your belly, legs, and buttocks shouldn't move.
  • Hold the squeeze for 3 seconds, then relax for 5 to 10 seconds.
  • Start with 3 seconds, then add 1 second each week until you are able to squeeze for 10 seconds.
  • Repeat the exercise 10 times a session. Do 3 to 8 sessions a day.
• Prevent constipation. Make sure you drink enough fluids and include fruits, vegetables, and fibre in your diet each day.
• If you're overweight, talk to your doctor about safe ways to lose weight. Losing weight can help with stress incontinence.
• Wearing pads that absorb the leaks may help for a time. Pads designed to absorb urine work best.
• Keep skin in the genital area dry. Petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) spread on the area may help protect your skin.