From the experts
Simple behavior modifications may improve the symptoms of overactive bladder.
Q: I've recently gone through menopause, and on top of everything else, I seem to be losing bladder control. I have little leaks of urine when I sneeze or laugh hard. Is this related to menopause? Is there anything I can do about it?
Q: Since I’ve been pregnant, I have been occasionally leaking urine. Will this stop after I have my baby? Can I do anything to avoid it now?
If you leak urine when you laugh, sneeze or cough, you have what we call “stress incontinence.” It happens when extra pressure is placed on the abdomen which, in turn, puts pressure on the bladder. Coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting heavy objects, playing tennis, running and jumping are examples of activities that can cause stress incontinence.