What are the risk factors for stress urinary incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence occurs when coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting or exercise raises pressure inside the abdomen and the bladder outlet does not close firmly enough. Pregnancy stretches pelvic support, while vaginal childbirth can affect pelvic-floor muscles, nerves and connective tissue.

Ageing and menopause may change muscle and tissue support. Repeated constipation, a long-lasting cough, obesity, heavy lifting and high-impact activity can place repeated pressure on the pelvic floor. Previous pelvic surgery, pelvic-floor dysfunction and some connective-tissue conditions may also contribute. Having a risk factor does not mean leakage is inevitable.

Track when leakage occurs, what you were doing, and whether urgency or burning is present. A pelvic-floor physiotherapist can check technique and tailor exercises; squeezing the wrong muscles or holding your breath can reduce benefit.

Treat constipation and a persistent cough, avoid smoking, and discuss weight or exercise changes without straining. Do not reduce fluids excessively, because concentrated urine can irritate the bladder. A clinician can check for infection and explain options if symptoms continue.

Arrange an assessment if leakage is new, bothersome, worsening, or affecting work, sleep, intimacy or exercise. Seek prompt care for blood in the urine, painful urination, fever, severe pelvic pain, inability to pass urine, or new weakness or numbness in the legs.

Ask whether your pattern fits stress urinary incontinence, whether pelvic-floor physiotherapy is suitable, which tests are needed, and what non-surgical or surgical options could be considered if training does not control the leakage.