What is Stress urinary incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the involuntary leakage of urine during physical activity or exertion, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise. It occurs when the pressure in the bladder is greater than the strength of the urethral sphincter, the muscle that controls the flow of urine from the bladder.

Normally, when the bladder fills, the urethra is closed off by the urethral sphincter. When you urinate, the sphincter relaxes and the urine is released. In people with SUI, the sphincter cannot close off the urethra completely, resulting in leakage of urine during physical activity.

SUI is more common in women than in men and is often associated with childbirth, which can weaken the muscles of the pelvic floor. Other risk factors for SUI include obesity, chronic coughing, smoking, and neurological conditions.

SUI can be managed with a variety of treatments, including pelvic floor muscle exercises, bladder training, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.