This test can help determine whether urine flow is obstructed and whether the bladder muscles can contract strongly enough to expel the urine. Stress incontinence is diagnosed by reviewing the history of the problem, examining the vagina in women, and observing the loss of urine with coughing or straining. A pelvic examination also helps determine if the lining of the urethra or vagina is thinned because of lack of estrogen. Treatment Optimum treatment depends on careful analysis of the problem in each person and varies with the specific nature of the problem. The majority of people with urinary incontinence can be either cured or helped considerably.
Treatment often requires only taking some simple steps to change behavior.
Drugs that affect bladder function adversely can often be stopped. Specific treatments, as outlined below, should be tried. If incontinence can't be fully controlled with specific treatments, specially designed incontinence pads and undergarments can protect the skin and enable people to remain dry, comfortable, and socially active. These items are unobtrusive and readily available. Episodes of urge incontinence often can be prevented by urinating at regular intervals before the urge occurs.