Urinary Incontinence in Baltimore, MD

Urinary incontinence is a common but often misunderstood condition characterized by the involuntary loss of urine. This issue can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected, leading to emotional distress and social withdrawal. Recognizing its prevalence is essential for breaking the stigma associated with the condition. 



• Estimates suggest that approximately 25-45% of women and 10-30% of men experience urinary incontinence at some point in their lives​.
• It is more common among older adults, but it can also affect younger individuals due to various factors such as pregnancy or certain medical condition

Understanding urinary incontinence is crucial because it encompasses a range of symptoms and types, each with its own underlying causes. By raising awareness about this condition, we can encourage more individuals to seek help and discuss their symptoms with healthcare professionals, ultimately leading to better management and treatment options.

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence is the most common form, characterized by leakage of urine during a physical activities such as, exercising or lifting or when laughing, sneezing and coughing. If your pelvic floor muscles, (vagina and supporting bladder ligaments) weaken, your bladder can move downward, pushing slightly out of the bottom of the pelvis toward the vagina. The urethra can lose its supporting tissue allowing it to move excessively. Either of these conditions can prevent muscles that ordinarily force the urethra to close from squeezing as tightly as they should. As a result, urine can leak into the urethra whenever there is an increase in abdominal pressure (e.g., during physical activities, when laughing, etc.). Physical changes resulting from pregnancy and childbirth, and low estrogen levels that occur during and after menopause, play a significant role in the development of stress incontinence. It is the most common form of incontinence in women and, in most cases, can be effectively treated.

Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence is a condition characterized by an intense, uncontrollable urge to urinate that can occur unexpectedly, regardless of your location. Whether you're socializing with friends, shopping, or relaxing at home, urge incontinence can strike at any moment. This condition arises from inappropriate bladder contractions and can be triggered by various factors, including certain medical conditions, lifestyle choices, or emotional stressors.



If you experience symptoms of urge incontinence, it's important to seek professional help. Women’s Health Services and Cosmetic Services of Maryland specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition, offering personalized treatment plans to help you regain control of your bladder health.

Overflow Incontinence

Overflow incontinence is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine from an overfilled bladder. Most times patients with this disorder do not feel the sensation of fullness or are unable to empty the bladder due to an obstruction in the opening of the bladder. Patients with a neurological disorder or using medication that decrease the contractility of the bladder, or over the aggressive repair of the bladder during a prolapse repair complain of this problem. A complete evaluation along with information from Ultrasound, cystoscopy, and urodynamic testing is helpful in the diagnosis of overflow incontinence. Treatment in most cases is conservative and at times medication can be helpful. Surgical removal of the obstruction may be helpful in some patients. A bladder pacemaker can also be helpful in treating overflow incontinence.

Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder (OAB) is more than just a frequent need to urinate; it's a complex condition characterized by uncontrolled bladder contractions that can disrupt daily life. This common issue affects an estimated 37 million people in the United States alone and can lead to sudden and urgent trips to the bathroom, both during the day and at night. Individuals with OAB may experience not only frequent urges but also potential leakage, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding the underlying causes, which range from nerve damage to lifestyle factors like diet and fluid intake, is crucial for effective management. There are various treatment options available, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and bladder training techniques, aimed at regaining control over bladder function and improving overall well-being.

What are the Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence?

When it comes to understanding the symptoms of urinary incontinence, recognizing the signs is crucial for effective management and treatment. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate the presence of this condition:

• Leaking urine during everyday activities: This can happen while lifting, bending, coughing, or exercising.
• Inability to hold urine after a sudden, strong urge: A sudden and urgent need to urinate may occur, making it difficult to reach the restroom in time.
• Unexpected leakage: This may happen without any warning or urge to go.
• Bedwetting: Incontinence can lead to involuntary urination during sleep.
• Urine leakage during sexual activity: Some individuals may experience leakage during intercourse.

Additionally, many individuals with urinary incontinence find themselves needing to urinate more than seven times a day or experiencing frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom, known as nocturia. Recognizing these symptoms can prompt timely medical consultation and treatment options.

What are the Benefits of Urinary Incontinence Treatments?

Treatments for urinary incontinence can give women back their confidence and ability to come and go without the fear of having an accident at the most inopportune time. The benefits of these treatments include:

• Increased Comfort: Many patients report feeling more at ease and less anxious about leakage, allowing them to engage in daily activities without fear.
• Enhanced Social Interactions: Treatment can lead to improved confidence in social settings, enabling individuals to participate in gatherings, work events, and recreational activities more freely.
• Better Sleep Quality: Managing nocturia (nighttime urination) can lead to uninterrupted sleep, positively impacting overall health and well-being.
• Personalized Care: Various treatment options, from lifestyle changes and medications to surgical interventions, allow for tailored approaches based on individual needs and preferences.
• Improved Physical Health: Addressing urinary incontinence can encourage individuals to be more active, leading to better overall health outcomes.

Overall, effective urinary incontinence treatments can profoundly transform an individual's daily life by restoring confidence and normalcy.