What Are the Signs of Urinary Incontinence in Women?

Urinary incontinence (UI), or the involuntary loss of bladder control, is a common issue that can affect women at various stages of life. It ranges from light leaks during a sneeze to sudden, urgent trips to the bathroom.

Although rarely discussed openly, recognising early signs of urinary incontinence is important, as it can impact daily routines, emotional well-being, and social life.

Signs of Urinary Incontinence in Women

There are different types of urinary incontinence, each characterised by distinct symptoms. In women, signs may vary from occasional drips to uncontrollable leakage, depending on the cause and severity.

• Needing to Urinate Often and Suddenly

  
  This is one of the most common symptoms of urinary incontinence. It involves a sudden, intense need to urinate, often followed by leakage before reaching the toilet. This can disrupt daily activities and sleep, and may be linked to an overactive bladder.

• Urine Leakage During Physical Activity

  
  Known as stress urinary incontinence, this occurs when pressure is placed on the bladder, such as during coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercise. It is especially common in women due to factors like childbirth, pregnancy, ageing, and pelvic floor weakening.

• Uncontrolled Urination During Sleep

  
  Also known as nocturnal enuresis or nighttime urinary incontinence, this refers to involuntary urination during sleep. While it is more common in children, it can affect women due to bladder dysfunction, hormonal changes, or underlying neurological conditions.

• Post-Urination Dribbling or Ongoing Leakage

  
  Some women may experience dribbling shortly after urination, often due to incomplete bladder emptying or weakened pelvic support. This can occur post-childbirth, during menopause, or due to pelvic floor disorders.

• Persistent Sensation that the Bladder Is Not Fully Emptied

  
  Feeling like the bladder is never fully emptied may result in frequent, small trips to the bathroom. In women, this could be caused by bladder outlet obstruction, pelvic organ prolapse, or neurological conditions affecting bladder signals.

Why Does Urinary Incontinence Happen?

Urinary incontinence stems from a variety of factors, generally categorised into short-term and chronic causes. It is important not to dismiss urinary incontinence, as it can be an indicator of other underlying conditions that may require immediate medical attention.

• Pregnancy
• Vaginal Childbirth
• Menopause
• Constipation
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
• Excess Body Weight
• Diabetes
• Hysterectomy or uterus removal
• Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis

When Should You See a Doctor?

Some instances of urinary incontinence are common, particularly among older women, and may not always require immediate medical intervention. However, it is always advisable to seek a proper diagnosis from a doctor if you are concerned about its cause or are experiencing unusual symptoms.

Pay close attention to the following, as some of these may necessitate immediate diagnosis and treatment:

• Blood in urine
• Frequent, unexplained leakage
• Constant dribbling after urination
• Urgency that interferes with daily life
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Trouble initiating urination or a weak stream

Support for Women’s Bladder Health

Urinary incontinence extends beyond a mere physical issue, often significantly impacting emotional well-being and social confidence. If you find your physical, emotional, or social health is being compromised, we encourage you to seek care and support.

Our clinic offers compassionate, personalised care to manage urinary incontinence and help you regain comfort and confidence. Contact us today at (65) 6681 6699 to arrange a consultation with Dr Chen Chern Yi, our experienced female gynaecologist in Singapore.