What causes urinary incontinence in women?

Urinary incontinence in women can have many causes. These include neurological diseases (problems related to the nervous system and spinal cord), postpartum bladder disorders, muscle diseases, urinary tract infections, iatrogenic causes following certain surgeries, and anatomical problems.

Urinary incontinence, regardless of the cause, requires a thorough evaluation. Some types, particularly incontinence due to bladder inability to empty, can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure. Therefore, anyone experiencing urinary incontinence should consult a urologist.

Urinary incontinence is common in women after childbirth and during menopause. This type of incontinence, particularly stress incontinence—that is, incontinence caused by coughing or sneezing—is unlikely to benefit from medical treatment. In these cases, simple sling surgery can correct the problem.