1. Stress
   
2. Urge
   
3. Overflow
   

There are other bladder problems which are evaluated and treated in the Mid-Missouri Continence Center, such as overactive bladder, pelvic pain, hesitancy and mixed incontinence, and central nervous system disorders.

1. Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence occurs when pelvic organs slip down. As a result, the bladder neck is not in the correct position and activity such as coughing or sneezing increases pressure on the abdominal cavity and bladder. Some symptoms of stress incontinence include:

• Leaking urine during a cough, sneeze or laugh.
• Going to the bathroom more frequently to avoid accidents.
• Avoiding exercise because it may cause leakage.

2. Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence is caused by an overly sensitive bladder, which feels full even when it contains a small amount of urine. The bladder contracts unexpectedly, the bladder neck opens, and if the external sphincter is weak, urine in the bladder is expelled. Some symptoms include:

• Wetting if there is a delay in getting to the bathroom.
• Going to the bathroom at least every two hours.
• Getting up frequently during the night.

3. Overflow Incontinence

Overflow incontinence can result when scar tissue or dropped organs make the urethra (urine channel) very narrow, or may arise temporarily after pelvic surgery or childbirth. Overflow can also occur when the bladder stops contracting due to medications, injured nerves, prostate enlargement, or a habitually overstretched bladder. Some symptoms of overflow incontinence are:

• Getting up frequently during the night to urinate.
• Taking a long time to urinate, then urinating small amounts but not feeling empty.
• Dribbling urine throughout the day.