The involuntary loss of urine is termed as Urinary Incontinence. This happens when the control over urinary sphincter is either weakened or lost. This is a fairly common problem in women. In some women, a few drops of urine passes out while coughing or running. In other women, there is a sudden or strong urge to urinate just before losing a large amount of urine. In some women, both of these symptoms may be present. This condition can become quite embarrassing for women and may result in keeping them away from socializing. In some cases Urinary incontinence also happens during high emotional stress or during sexual activity.
Causes:
The following may be the possible causes of Urinary Incontinence:
Pregnancy: the excess pressure on the abdominal area may cause urinary incontinence
Childbirth: if there is nerve damage during chioldbith, it may give rise to this condition
Infection: Some excessive intake of caffeine or alcohol might cause this problem.
Menopause: Constipation during menopause may also be resposible for urinary incontinence.
Types:
Urge Incontinence: This happens when person feels an overwhelming need to urinate and is unable to control the flow.
Overflow Incontinence: This is a condition in which a constant dribbling of urine is experienced.
Stress Incontinence: In this condition, there is involuntary loss of urine while coughing, sneezing or lifting heavy objects. These activities put pressure on the lower abdominal thus causing urine incontinence.
Prevention:
Exercises are the best cure for this condition. Kegel exercises or pelvic muscle exercises are very helpful in preventing or treating urinary incontinence. Several Yoga Asanas have also been shown to reverse this condition. Child’s pose or Balasana, Easy Pose or sukhasana, Down ward facing dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana, Fish Pose or Matsyasana, Triangle Pose or Utthita Trikonasana are some of these.