Urge incontinence

Urge incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine (wee) associated with urgency (a sudden and strong need to urinate).

Stress incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence is the leaking of small amounts of urine during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, walking & lifting.

Urinary retention

Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder completely. This may result in leaking small amounts of urine (wee) on a regular basis.

Functional incontinence

Functional incontinence is also known as disability associated urinary incontinence. It occurs when the person's bladder and/or bowel is working normally but they are unable to access the toilet. This may be due to a physical or a cognitive condition.

Nocturia

Nocturia is when you wake up during the night or main sleep time because you have to pass urine (wee). It is a common problem that becomes more common as we get older.

Post micturition incontinence

Post micturition incontinence (commonly known as after-dribble) can occur when men lose a small amount of urine (wee) after emptying their bladder.

Bedwetting – children

Also known as nocturnal enuresis, bedwetting is the involuntary passing of urine (wee) that occurs at night during the main sleep period.

Daytime wetting – children

Most children have gained daytime bladder control by the age of four. Most day wetting after this age occurs because the bladder is not working normally.

Incontinence in teenagers and young adults

Although incontinence becomes less common as children age, it still affects many teenagers and young adults.

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Last Updated: Wed 29, May 2024
Last Reviewed: Sun 22, Mar 2020