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Stress Incontinence

From , former About.com Guide

Updated October 11, 2005

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Overview:


Stress incontinence involves an involuntary loss of urine that occurs with increased intra-abdominal pressure. Activities that increase abdominal pressure include laughing, coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting.
Stress incontinence is the most common type of urinary incontinence in women.

Causes:


Stress incontinence can be due to weakened pelvic muscles that support the urethra and bladder. Malfunction of the uretheral sphincter can also result in stress incontinence.

Risk Factors:


Multiple pregnancies, smoking, obesity, and female sex are the common risk factors in the development of stress incontinence.

Treatment.:


Treatment of stress incontinence involves strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles. This can be done through Kegel exercises.
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