What causes urinary incontinence in women?

Leakage of urine generally refers to urinary incontinence. In women, urinary incontinence may be caused by factors such as weakened pelvic floor muscle function, pregnancy, urinary tract infection, urogenital fistula, or decreased estrogen levels. Patients should seek timely medical evaluation at a reputable hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction

The pelvic floor muscles are an important group of muscles that support the bladder and urethra. When these muscles weaken, their tone and elasticity decrease, making them unable to effectively support the bladder and urethra. This leads to impaired control of urination and results in urinary incontinence. Women can undergo pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation after childbirth to improve this condition.

2. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, as the uterus gradually enlarges, it may compress the bladder and urethra, interfering with normal urine outflow and leading to urinary incontinence. Pregnancy-related incontinence is usually temporary and symptoms may resolve spontaneously after delivery.

3. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

In a urinary tract infection, bacteria invade the urethra and bladder, triggering an inflammatory response. Inflammation increases the sensitivity of the urethra and bladder, disrupts normal bladder contraction, and may lead to urinary incontinence. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or Sanjin tablets for treatment.

4. Urogenital Fistula

A urogenital fistula is an abnormal passage between the urinary and genital systems, which may result from surgical injury, inflammation, tumors, or other causes. The presence of a fistula allows urine to leak through an abnormal channel, causing urinary incontinence. In such cases, patients should promptly seek care at a qualified hospital and consider surgical repair to correct the condition.

5. Decreased Estrogen Levels

Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining normal function of the female reproductive system. When estrogen levels decline, it may lead to reduced elasticity of vaginal and perineal tissues and impaired urethral sphincter function, resulting in urinary incontinence. Patients may take medications such as conjugated estrogens tablets, nylestriol tablets, or ethinyl estradiol tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

If symptoms of urinary incontinence in women persist without improvement over time, timely medical evaluation at a reputable hospital is essential to determine the cause and initiate proper treatment.