Urinary incontinence is leaking of urine. It is not a disease, but it is a symptom of many other health conditions, and can occur after surgery. More than 15 million Americans suffer from incontinence. Although it is more common over 60, it can occur at any age. In general, more than 25 percent of women and about 15 percent of men have incontinence.

Stress incontinence: Stress incontinence is the most common type of leakage. This occurs when urine is lost during activities such as walking, exercising, or even a sneeze or cough. The added pressure on the abdomen from these activities can cause urine to leak. The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and urethra, can be weak, preventing the sphincter muscles from working properly. This can also occur if the sphincter muscles are weak or damaged from surgery. In men, the most common cause of incontinence is surgery on the prostate.