6 Causes of Incontinence You Need to Know About

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of incontinence or have concerns about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. Bodyotics products are wellness-focused and are not medical devices.

Urinary incontinence is a subject that is often considered taboo, yet it affects millions of women worldwide. In fact, 1 in 3 women will experience bladder leaks at some point in their lives. Despite common misconceptions, incontinence is not limited to older age—it can happen to women of any age. The first step in breaking the stigma is learning about the different types of incontinence and what may cause them.

1. Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence happens when urine leaks due to physical pressure on the bladder, such as during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise. This occurs when the pelvic floor muscles or sphincter muscles are weakened, making it harder to control bladder flow. Pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes natural muscle changes are often linked with this type of incontinence.

2. Urge Incontinence

Also known as overactive bladder, urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense need to urinate that can be difficult to control. It may involve more frequent trips to the bathroom, including at night. While causes vary, factors may include bladder irritation, inflammation, or neurological changes.

3. Overflow Incontinence

Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder does not fully empty, leading to small, unexpected leaks. Some women may not feel the urge to urinate before leakage happens. Though more common in men, women can also experience this due to blockages, prolapse, or nerve damage.

4. Functional Incontinence

This type of incontinence occurs when someone knows they need to urinate but cannot make it to the toilet in time. Causes are usually linked to other conditions such as arthritis, mobility challenges, or cognitive changes like dementia.

5. Mixed Incontinence

Mixed incontinence is when a person experiences more than one type of incontinence—often a combination of stress and urge incontinence.

6. Key Life Factors That Can Contribute to Incontinence

Several stages or conditions in life can increase the likelihood of experiencing bladder leaks:

Pregnancy and Childbirth: Hormonal changes, extra weight, and the physical process of labour can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor.
Menopause: Lower estrogen levels can reduce elasticity in the bladder and urethra, contributing to leaks.
Age: Natural muscle changes occur as we get older.
Hysterectomy: Pelvic floor muscles may be affected during surgery.
Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis may impact bladder function.

Supporting Pelvic Floor Wellness

While incontinence can feel isolating, there are ways to support pelvic floor strength and bladder awareness. Gentle lifestyle changes such as mindful fluid intake, bladder training, and pelvic floor exercises may help.

Kegel exercises, in particular, are a simple and discreet way to bring awareness to your pelvic floor. Many women choose to use Bodyotics Kegel Balls as part of their wellness routine, finding them to be a supportive tool for building consistency and connection.

Explore Bodyotics Kegel Balls here

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Final Thoughts

Incontinence is more common than many people realize, and understanding the different types and causes is an important step toward managing it. Remember—you are not alone. With awareness, supportive routines, and professional guidance when needed, you can take proactive steps toward feeling more confident and in control.