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Urge incontinence is a sudden, strong need to pass urine (wee) that may lead to leaks before reaching the toilet. It affects people of all ages and can affect daily life.
You may notice:
- a sudden, urgent need to urinate (wee)
- accidental leaking before you get to the toilet
- needing to go to the toilet more often.
Even without leaks, urgency can interfere with daily life.
Causes of urge incontinence
Urge incontinence may be linked to:
- older age
- stress
- drinking too much tea, coffee, fizzy drinks or alcohol
- excessive fluid intake
- health conditions eg Parkinson’s disease, stroke or multiple sclerosis
- constipation
- enlarged prostate (in men*)
- long-term habits such as going to the toilet ‘just in case’.
Sometimes, the cause isn’t clear, but support is available.
* References to ‘women’ or ‘men’ include anyone with similar health needs, regardless of sex at birth or gender identity. Read our Gender inclusivity statement.
What can help reduce urge incontinence
Sometimes the cause isn’t clear, but support is available.
- pelvic floor exercises – making these muscles stronger can help you hold on longer
- completing a bladder diary – tracking when you go to the toilet and when leaks happen to share with your doctor
- bladder training –increasing the time between toilet visits
- medicines – may help relax the bladder muscles.
This content has been reviewed by subject matter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.