When should you see a doctor about urinary incontinence?

Leakage can happen with coughing, exercise, a sudden urge, or difficulty reaching a toilet. It may also occur because the bladder is irritated or does not empty well. A urinary tract infection can present with urgency, burning, frequent urination, and leakage. In men, benign prostatic hyperplasia can affect urine flow and bladder emptying. Other health factors, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, or dementia, may influence bladder control.

Record when leakage occurs, whether it follows a cough or strong urge, how often you pass urine, and any night-time symptoms. Note drinks, medicines, constipation, pain, fever, or changes in urine colour. Keep drinking normally unless a clinician has advised otherwise, and use absorbent protection if needed. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice.

Seek urgent medical help for visible blood in the urine, fever with back or side pain, severe lower abdominal pain, confusion, new leg weakness, or an inability to pass urine. Sudden loss of bladder control with numbness around the groin or weakness in both legs needs emergency assessment.

Ask what type of incontinence your pattern suggests, whether a urine test or bladder assessment is needed, and which exercises, fluid changes, or treatments may help. Ask when to return if symptoms change.