Risk factors for incontinence are age: Bladder and urethra muscles lose some of their elasticity and strength. Age also can reduce bladder size and increase chances of involuntary urine release. Women are more likely to be plagued by stress incontinence whereas men, because of prostate problems, are more likely to be besieged by urge and overflow incontinence.

Being overweight or obese increases abdominal pressure, weakening connections between muscles and causing leakage when sneezing or coughing. Neurological diseases and diabetes can also increase the risk of incontinence.  

Urinary tract infections and skin problems like rashes, infections and sores from constantly wet skin are complications of urinary incontinence. Incontinence can also affect work, personal and social relationships. There are five types of urinary incontinence discussed here: stress, overflow, urge, functional and mixed incontinence.

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence is the involuntary release of urine when the body is in a position of putting physical pressure on the bladder. Examples include coughing, sneezing, sexual intercourse, laughing, vigorous exercise, lifting heavy objects or when bending over. It can involve a large leak or a few drops.

Both women and men are susceptible to stress incontinence, but women are two times more likely to fall victim to it. The most common causes of female stress incontinence are multiple pregnancies and childbirths. These stretch out the sphincter and pelvic muscles, weakening them.

For men, an enlarged prostate or surgery are common causes of stress incontinence. Because the prostate gland surrounds the urethra, surgery to remove an enlarged gland can weaken support for the urethra. Inflammation of the prostate gland could cause involuntary leakage. Other causes are obesity, constipation and diabetes.