Urinary incontinence is a severely under-diagnosed and under-reported problem that increases with age. Dr. Ragini Agarwal Clinical Director-Obstetrics & Gynecology Minimal Access Surgery & Cosmetic Gynecologist of W Pratiksha Hospital Gurgaon answers common questions on management and treatment options

• Do you leak while sneezing laughing or coughing?
• Is your marital life affected?
• Have you started avoiding social gatherings?

Sixty-five year old Saroj Arya recounts her triumph over Stage III ovarian cancer and says she pumped every cell in her body with positive energy and spirit to help her heal and get back on her feet speedily.

Treatment of urinary incontinence depends on the type, its severity and the underlying cause. A combination of treatments may be needed to treat urinary incontinence.  The doctor may suggest some of the following: 

Medications

Anticholinergics: Oxybutynin (Ditropan XL), Tolteridone (Detrol), Darifenacin (Enablex), Fesoterodine (Toviaz), Solifenacin (Vesicare), Trospium (Sanctura). These medications can calm an over-active bladder and may be helpful for urge incontinence.

You cannot prevent all cases of urinary incontinence, but there are some steps to reduce your risk of episodes. Try to live a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight, avoid smoking, do regular exercise, and eat well. Have enough fibre in your diet, in order to prevent constipation.