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UrologicalICD-10: N39.3Affects approximately 15-35% of adult women and 1-10% of men

Stress Urinary Incontinence

Also known as: Stress incontinence, SUI

Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and urethral sphincter are weakened, often due to childbirth, aging, or surgery. Treatment options range from pelvic floor exercises to surgical procedures.

Symptoms

Urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, or laughing
Leaking urine during physical activity or exercise
Urine loss when lifting heavy objects
Leakage when bending over
Small amounts of urine released unexpectedly

Causes

  • Weakened pelvic floor muscles
  • Vaginal childbirth causing pelvic floor damage
  • Prostate surgery in men
  • Chronic coughing from smoking or respiratory conditions
  • Aging and hormonal changes, especially after menopause

Risk Factors

  • Multiple vaginal deliveries
  • Obesity placing extra pressure on the bladder
  • Aging and menopause in women
  • Prostate surgery in men
  • Chronic constipation or heavy lifting
  • Smoking causing chronic cough

Diagnosis

  • Medical history and symptom assessment
  • Physical examination including pelvic exam
  • Cough stress test to observe leakage
  • Urinalysis to rule out infection
  • Urodynamic testing to assess bladder function

Treatment

  • Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels)
  • Bladder training techniques
  • Vaginal pessary to support the urethra
  • Bulking agent injections around the urethra
  • Midurethral sling surgery
  • Weight loss if overweight

Prevention

  • Regular pelvic floor exercises, especially during and after pregnancy
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Quitting smoking to reduce chronic cough
  • Treating chronic constipation

When to See a Doctor

  • Urine leakage that interferes with daily activities
  • Needing to limit physical activity due to incontinence
  • Emotional distress or embarrassment related to leakage
  • Urinary symptoms accompanied by pain or blood

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Urinary Tract Infection

Urological

Overactive Bladder

Urological

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