Urinary Incontinence
Urinary Incontinence: Understanding What’s Happening
Leaking urine or feeling like you’ve lost some control over your bladder can be upsetting, frustrating, or even isolating. But it’s a common response to certain cancer treatments.
This happens when the muscles that control urination become weaker, overactive, or are affected by treatment. It can range from minor dribbling to more frequent accidents. Other contributors include age, urinary tract infections, vaginal dryness, childbirth history, and menopause.
Types of Urinary Incontinence Include:
- Stress incontinence – Leakage when pressure increases from coughing, laughing, or sneezing.
- Urgency incontinence (overactive bladder) – Strong, sudden urges that may be followed by leakage.
- Mixed incontinence – A combination of stress and urgency symptoms.
- Overflow incontinence – Difficulty emptying the bladder fully, leading to dribbling or weak flow.
Daily Habits That Can Make a Difference
These simple strategies may help reduce symptoms and increase your sense of control.
Support Your Bladder Health
- Drink the right amount of fluids. Too little can irritate your bladder, while too much may overwhelm it.
- Avoid bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol.
- Aim for regular, gentle movement to improve strength and digestion.
Time Your Bathroom Visits
- Go every 2–3 hours, even if you don’t feel the urge.
- Empty your bladder before leaving home, work, or a restaurant.
Track What’s Happening
- Keep a bladder diary noting when you urinate, fluid intake, and any leaks.
- Include what you were doing beforehand (like sneezing or exercising) to spot patterns.
Stay Ahead of Constipation
- Constipation can put added pressure on your bladder. Hydration, fiber, and physical activity can help.
Strengthening and Adapting
Managing incontinence often requires a few adjustments…not giving up your usual activities, but approaching them differently
Exercise with confidence
Plan ahead when you’re out
Protect your long-term health
Reach and maintain a healthy weight
When to Reach Out
Bring up incontinence with your care team, even if it feels awkward. They can suggest therapies, medications, or procedures tailored to your needs.
Call your care team if you experience:
- A burning sensation during urination
- Fever or signs of a urinary tract infection
- Leaking that interferes with your daily life
- A sudden change or worsening of your symptoms
Urinary issues may not be something you expected to deal with but with the right information and support, they don’t have to disrupt your life.
