Stress Incontinence (SUI)

Quick Summary

• Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is urine leakage during physical activity.
• It’s due to weakened pelvic floor muscles or a damaged urethral sphincter.
• Common triggers: coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising.
• It’s common in women after childbirth or menopause.
• Treatments include exercises, lifestyle changes, devices, or surgery.

What Is Stress Urinary Incontinence?

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is when urine leaks during physical activities that increase pressure on the bladder — such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting, or exercising.

It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles or urethral sphincter are too weak to hold urine in during these movements.

What Causes SUI?

SUI is typically caused by weakened or damaged bladder support structures. Common causes include:

• Pregnancy and vaginal childbirth
• Menopause and decreased estrogen
• Aging
• Pelvic surgery (e.g., hysterectomy, prostate surgery)
• Obesity
• Chronic coughing or heavy lifting

What Are the Symptoms of Stress Urinary Incontinence?

The main symptom is urine leakage during physical exertion. This may include:

• Coughing or sneezing
• Laughing
• Running, jumping, or exercising
• Lifting heavy objects
• Standing up suddenly

The leakage is unintentional and may be occasional or frequent, depending on severity.

How Is Stress Incontinence Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider may use the following to diagnose SUI:

• Medical history and symptom review
• Physical exam (including pelvic or rectal exam)
• Bladder diary to track leakage
• Urine tests to rule out infection
• Urodynamic testing (in complex or surgical cases)

What Are the Treatment Options for SUI?

Effective treatments are available, and many people improve without surgery.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

• Kegel exercises (pelvic floor strengthening)
• Bladder training
• Lifestyle changes (e.g., weight loss, avoiding bladder irritants)
• Pessary device (inserted into the vagina to support the bladder)
• Pelvic floor physical therapy

Surgical Treatments:

• Midurethral sling surgery (most common and effective)
• Urethral bulking injections

Can Stress Urinary Incontinence Be Cured?

Yes. Many people fully recover or significantly improve with proper treatment.

Milder cases often respond to exercises and therapy. More advanced cases may benefit from surgical procedures. Early diagnosis improves outcomes.

Who Is Most at Risk for SUI?

You’re more likely to develop SUI if you:

• Are female (especially after childbirth or menopause)
• Have had pelvic surgery
• Are overweight or obese
• Smoke or have a chronic cough
• Have a history of multiple pregnancies

What’s the Difference Between SUI and Overactive Bladder?

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