Leaking urine is not just about age

Many people live with leaking urine for years and say nothing, sometimes from embarrassment and sometimes because they think it comes naturally with age. It is common, but it is not an inevitable part of ageing, and mentioning it is the first step to getting better.

Which type do you have?

If you leak when you cough, laugh or lift, it is probably stress incontinence. If you get a sudden strong urge and do not reach the toilet in time, we think of urge incontinence. Some people have both. In the overflow type, the bladder does not empty fully and urine leaks often.

The difference matters, because each type is treated differently.

The pelvic floor muscles

These muscles surround the bladder and urethra and help control urine. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken them, but pelvic floor exercises are not only for women and can benefit everyone with incontinence. The usual programme is at least 8 contractions at least 3 times a day, for at least 3 months. A specialist can check that you are contracting the muscle correctly.

Bladder training

For urge incontinence, bladder training helps you slowly lengthen the time between feeling the need and going. It usually takes at least 6 weeks.

Habits that make a difference

• Cutting down on caffeine in tea, coffee and cola
• Adjusting how much you drink, because too much and too little can both make it worse
• Losing weight, if you are overweight

If these steps are not enough, medicine or surgery may be considered. That decision comes after the type of leaking is known.

When to come sooner

You can come for any kind of leaking. If you also have pain or blood in your urine, do not put it off. The bladder and bladder control explains this in more depth.