Urinary incontinence is involuntary leakage from the bladder that can occur when something goes wrong with the complex interactions among the brain, nervous system and pelvic organs. There are many causes of incontinence, many of which are treatable with nonsurgical and surgical therapies.

Urinary Incontinence: Why Choose Johns Hopkins

• Our team is uniquely experienced with treating incontinence caused by many different and complex conditions. These include side effects of cancer treatments, neurological diseases, congenital problems, childbirth and complications of reconstructive surgery.
• Our physician scientists are studying the causes of male and female incontinence and how to improve urinary function in patients recovering from pelvic disorders. They use their findings to improve treatment for patients.
• You will receive compassionate, comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team of specialists, from your initial diagnosis through treatment and follow-up.

What to Expect

There are two types of incontinence: urge incontinence and stress incontinence. Some people have a combination of both types.

Accurately diagnosing the type and cause of incontinence is essential to successful treatment and can help you and your doctor decide if and what type of treatments would be most beneficial.

Treatment will depend on how bothersome your symptoms are, and whether you prefer surgical or nonsurgical therapy. We work closely with Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation’s pelvic floor team to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physical therapy when needed.