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What urinary incontinence is
The NHS describes two main types. Stress incontinence is when urine leaks at times when the bladder is under pressure, for example when you cough or laugh. Urge incontinence is leakage that comes with a sudden, strong need to pee, or just after it.
It can also happen when you sneeze, run, jump or lift something heavy. It is a common problem: the NHS describes it as thought to affect millions of people.
Why it happens
Stress incontinence is usually linked to weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and urethral sphincter. The pelvic floor is the group of muscles that supports the bladder, womb and bowel.
The NHS explains that being pregnant and giving birth can weaken the muscles that control the flow of urine, and lists pregnancy and vaginal birth among the risk factors. That is why looking after your pelvic floor after having a baby matters so much, even if years have passed and the leaks are no longer recent.
What the pelvic floor does
No leaks
- Bladder. It stores urine. When you cough or laugh, the pressure in your abdomen pushes down on it.
- Womb. It rests on the pelvic floor muscles, which support it along with the bladder and bowel.
- Pelvic floor. A hammock of muscles that supports the organs and closes off the outlet for urine. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken it.
Two main types
The NHS tells these two apart. Tap each one.
It happens when the bladder is under pressure. It is usually linked to weakened pelvic floor muscles and weakened urethral sphincter muscles.
It happens, for example, when
- Coughing
- Laughing
- Sneezing
- Running or jumping
- Lifting something heavy
When to get help
The NHS puts it plainly: see a doctor if you have any type of urinary incontinence. It is not an inevitable result of age or of having children, and the earlier it is investigated, the more options there are.
What can be done
According to the NHS, the first step is usually a combination of lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, which strengthen the muscles by squeezing them in a controlled way, and bladder training. Done properly, with guidance from a specialist, they are the foundation of treatment.
If these measures are not enough, there are other options. At the clinic we assess each case and, when it is needed, we offer anti-incontinence surgical techniques and pelvic floor surgery.
What the first visit is like
We talk calmly about your symptoms, your pregnancies and births and how much it affects you. There is a gynaecological examination and an assessment of the pelvic floor to decide the most suitable treatment. If there is no rush to decide, we do not rush: we explain the options and you choose.
Is your leakage worth a consultation?
The NHS advises seeing a doctor about any type of incontinence. This helps you put a name to it.
Do you leak urine when you cough, laugh, sneeze or exercise?
This questionnaire offers guidance, not a diagnosis. If the pain is severe or something worries you, book an appointment or seek urgent care.
About the specialist
Dra. Concepción Carrascosa Romero
Pelvic floor specialist: urinary incontinence, prolapse, chronic pelvic pain and pelvic floor surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is leaking urine after having a baby normal?
It is common, but it is not something you should simply accept. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor and there are treatments.
Do pelvic floor exercises work?
The NHS lists them as a first measure, together with bladder training and lifestyle changes. It is important to learn to do them correctly.
Will I need surgery?
Not necessarily. Surgery is considered if conservative measures are not enough, and it is always decided with you.
Can I prevent it?
Sources consulted
- NHS: Urinary incontinence · Checked on October 30, 2026
This information is educational and does not replace a medical consultation. If you have symptoms, book an appointment with a specialist.
