Urine Leakage and Pelvic Floor Therapy: What You Should Know
Urine leakage, or urinary incontinence, is something many people are embarrassed to talk about, but it’s more common than you might think. More importantly, it’s treatable.
Is It Common?
Yes. Approximately 10% of the Canadian population will experience some form of urine leakage symptoms in their lifetime. Both men and women can be affected. While it is a frequent issue, it’s important to understand that urine leakage is not a normal part of aging, and you don’t have to live with these symptoms forever.
Why Does It Happen?
Urine leakage can have many causes — some medical, some physiological. When the cause is related to pelvic floor dysfunction, a few key risk factors often come into play. Some key risk factors for urine leakage related to pelvic floor dysfunction include pregnancy and childbirth, smoking, obesity or excess weight, and high caffeine consumption. These factors can affect the strength, coordination, and function of the pelvic floor muscles, which play a critical role in bladder control.
What Are Pelvic Floor Muscles?
The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles located at the base of your pelvis. They support important organs like the bladder, bowel, and uterus (in women), and help control functions like urination, bowel movements, and sexual activity.
When these muscles are too weak, too tight, or poorly coordinated, it can lead to leaks, urgency, or other symptoms.
What Can I Do About It?
The good news? There is help. In fact, pelvic floor therapy is considered the first line of treatment for urine leakage related to pelvic floor dysfunction.
When you begin therapy, here’s what you can expect:
- A thorough initial assessment, including a detailed questionnaire about your symptoms, how they affect your daily life, and any contributing risk factors.
- An external and internal exam (if appropriate, and with your consent), usually performed during your first visit. This helps your therapist evaluate how your pelvic floor muscles work together with your core and hip muscles.
- A personalized treatment plan that may include exercises, lifestyle advice, bladder training, and education to help you regain control and confidence.
Final Thoughts
Even if urine leakage is common, it doesn’t have to be your normal. Pelvic floor therapy offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical option to help you address the root of the issue and take back your quality of life.
If you are a female dealing with urinary incontinence or leakage, book your consultation with physiotherapist Marianne Boulerice-Jackson by calling Kamloops Physiotherapy at (250) 314-0788.
Sources :
https://www.canadiancontinence.ca
Leslie SW, Tran LN, Puckett Y. Urinary Incontinence. [Updated 2024 Aug 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559095/