Which urinary symptom is characterized by involuntary leakage during physical activities?

Stress incontinence is characterized by involuntary leakage of urine that occurs during physical activities that put pressure on the bladder. This includes actions such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising—activities that can increase abdominal pressure and consequently stress the pelvic floor muscles. In these scenarios, the pelvic floor may not be able to sufficiently hold the urine in, leading to involuntary loss.

This condition is distinct from other types of incontinence. For example, urgency incontinence involves a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often resulting in leakage before reaching the toilet. Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder is overly full, leading to leakage due to the inability to empty completely. Functional incontinence is related to physical or mental impairments that hinder the ability to reach the bathroom in time, rather than the physical exertion itself.

Understanding the mechanisms of stress incontinence is crucial for recognizing symptoms and providing appropriate management strategies for those affected.