Significance

According to the Mayo Clinic, urinary incontinence is not a disease but a symptom of some other underlying issue. To treat incontinence, it is important to find and fix its cause.

Types

Some incontinence is temporary and brought on by dietary choices. Both overhydration and dehydration can cause incontinence. Also, caffeine and alcohol both act as diuretics, forcing the bladder to expel more urine.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of incontinence. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and damage to the vagina can weaken the muscles that control the bladder. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can take years for pregnancy-related incontinence to resolve itself.

Surgery

A hysterectomy, or removal of the uterus can also cause incontinence. The bladder and uterus are supported by the same set of muscles, and surgery could disrupt their functionality.

Considerations

Numerous conditions from urinary tract infections to cancer to changes in the body from aging can cause incontinence. After menopause, women produce less estrogen, which helps support the health of the bladder and the urethra. Without estrogen, the tissue needed for proper function begins to erode.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Incontinence Causes