Another 2006 study found that episiotomy does not help prevent urinary incontinence. Episiotomy is a surgical incision that is made during childbirth to the perineum, the muscle between the vagina and the rectum. Doctors commonly perform this procedure to help widen the vaginal opening and prevent tearing. The study found that episiotomy does not have many benefits, and may later cause pain during intercourse.
Vaginal birth can cause pelvic prolapse, a condition in which pelvic muscles weaken and the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus) slip into the vaginal canal. Pelvic prolapse, and the surgery used to correct it, can cause incontinence. Sacrocolpopexy is the standard surgical procedure for repairing pelvic prolapse. A 2006 study found that performing a urinary incontinence surgical procedure (Burch colposuspension) at the same time as sacrocolpopexy can help prevent stress incontinence. [See Surgery section.]
High-Impact Exercise. Women who engage in high-impact exercise are susceptible to urinary leakage, particularly women with a low foot arch. Shock to the pelvic area is increased as the foot makes impact with hard surfaces. Those at highest risk for urinary leakage are gymnasts, followed by softball, volleyball, and basketball players.
Smokers. Studies have reported a higher risk for incontinence, notably mixed incontinence, in women who are current or former heavy smokers (more than a pack a day).
Obesity. Being overweight is a major risk factor for all types of incontinence. The more a woman weighs, the greater her risk.
Medical Factors in Older Women. Urge incontinence is more common among postmenopausal women who have a history of:
- Diabetes
- Higher body mass index (heavier weight)
- Hysterectomy
- Two or more urinary tract infections within the past year
Incontinence in Men
The rate of incontinence in men (about 1.5 - 5%) is much lower than in women. In older men, prostate problems and their treatments are the most common factors that affect the urinary tract.
Race and Ethnicity
Urinary incontinence varies by race and ethnicity. It is most common in non-Hispanic white women. Among men, African Americans are at highest risk. Some studies suggest that the greatest disparity is with stress incontinence. African American and Asian American women have a much lower risk for stress incontinence than Caucasian and Hispanic women.
Factors in Temporary Incontinence
A number of conditions can cause temporary incontinence in anyone:
- Urinary tract infections
- Excess fluid intake
- Constipation
- Severe depression
- Restricted mobility
Previous Section
