Incontinence should not be a taboo topic
Urinary incontinence, commonly referred to as incontinence, is the medical term for the body’s inability to adequately store urine in the bladder (vesica urinaria) and to control when and where it is emptied. Incontinence is widespread, yet it remains a health issue that is often kept secret due to misplaced shame. As a result, many affected individuals withdraw from daily life and unnecessarily sacrifice their quality of life. However, modern medicine offers a variety of treatments, depending on the type of incontinence (see below). Seeking medical help is the first step toward effective treatment.
The bladder’s role in storing and emptying urine
An adult’s bladder collects about two liters of urine per day. The urge to urinate occurs at approximately 250 milliliters, with a strong need to urinate typically felt between 350 and 500 milliliters. On average, people use the restroom about seven times per day. Bladder function involves several muscles, as well as the autonomic (involuntary) and somatic (voluntary) nervous systems. This explains why stress and psychological strain can trigger bladder emptying and exacerbate incontinence.
Understanding bladder function
Urine produced by the kidneys continuously flows into the bladder. The bladder wall is composed of muscles, collectively known as the detrusor muscle. When a certain amount of urine has accumulated, this muscle signals the urge to urinate.
Once the decision to urinate is made, the bladder muscle contracts while the sphincter muscle relaxes. This allows urine to exit the bladder through the urethra (urethra) and leave the body. Another muscle, the urethral sphincter, part of the pelvic floor muscles, plays a key role in voluntary bladder control. Children typically gain control over this function by around the age of two.
Common types and causes of incontinence
Stress incontinence
Stress incontinence is the most common type of bladder weakness in women. It occurs during activities such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, lifting, or exercising. The cause is a weakened pelvic floor, often due to pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes during menopause, connective tissue weakness, or aging. The term “stress” refers to physical strain on the bladder’s closure mechanisms rather than emotional stress. Many pregnant women experience urinary leakage due to the baby pressing on the bladder.
Men are less affected by stress incontinence because the prostate helps close the bladder. However, after prostate removal surgery, stress incontinence can occur.
Urge incontinence
Urge incontinence (overactive bladder syndrome, or urgency incontinence) is characterized by a sudden and uncontrollable need to urinate, often leading to involuntary urine loss before reaching the restroom. Causes include an overactive bladder muscle or a reduced bladder capacity. Urge incontinence can also occur due to a bladder infection.
Overflow incontinence
Overflow incontinence (overflow bladder) occurs when urine outflow is obstructed, causing excessive bladder filling and involuntary urine leakage in small amounts. The most common cause is an enlarged prostate, making this condition more prevalent in men than women. Bladder stones can also block urine flow and trigger overflow incontinence.
Other types of incontinence
Reflex Incontinence: Caused by spinal cord injuries or severe nerve damage, reducing or completely eliminating the sensation of needing to urinate. As a result, the bladder empties reflexively without conscious control. Extraurethral Incontinence: Urine loss occurs outside the urethra due to congenital abnormalities or conditions like bladder-vaginal fistulas, which can develop after severe childbirth injuries. Mixed Incontinence: A combination of stress and urge incontinence.
Bladder incontinence is treatable
For healthcare professionals, incontinence is a medical condition like any other, with no reason for embarrassment. The sooner a doctor evaluates and treats incontinence, the greater the chances of relief or even complete recovery. Various treatments are available, including:
- Pelvic floor exercises for stress incontinence
- Medications for urge incontinence
- Surgical procedures for conditions like prostate enlargement or bladder-vaginal fistulas
Additionally, high-quality incontinence products, such as absorbent pads and specialized underwear, provide discreet protection while preventing odor.
Intimate hygiene protects and maintains skin health
With incontinence, the delicate skin in the intimate area is frequently exposed to urine, which can weaken its barrier function. This increases vulnerability to:
- Mechanical stress from incontinence products, underwear, and toilet paper
- Pathogens like bacteria and fungi
As a result, incontinence is often accompanied by irritation, inflammation, and infections. Women are particularly susceptible to vaginal infections due to the proximity of the urethral and vaginal openings.
Proper intimate hygiene can reduce urine contact and alleviate related discomfort. Regular use of Deumavan Protective Ointment, ideally before and after urination, helps maintain a protective barrier against irritation and moisture. Its lipid-replenishing, urine-repellent formula is free from additives that might further irritate the skin. For gentle cleansing, Deumavan Washing Lotion is recommended. Additionally, the anal area should also be protected and cared for, as it can be affected by incontinence.
