Is bladder leakage just part of getting older?

No. While it becomes more common with age and after childbirth, it's not inevitable and it's treatable. There are effective options worth exploring with a clinician.

What's the difference between stress and urge incontinence?

Stress incontinence is leaking with coughing, laughing or exercise; urge incontinence is a sudden strong need to go. Knowing the type helps guide which options are likely to help.

Urinary Incontinence Explained

Name: Urinary Incontinence Explained | Gynaec.com.au
Creator: Dr Priya Sivadas
Published: 2026-06-27

The main types

Incontinence is usually grouped into two main types, and some people have a mix of both.

Stress incontinence, leaking with coughing, laughing or exercise
Urge incontinence, a sudden, strong need to pass urine
Mixed, a combination of both

Why it happens

Leakage can relate to the pelvic floor, the bladder muscle, or hormonal changes. It's common, but it's not something you simply have to accept, the type guides which options are likely to help.

Options that help

A range of options exists, chosen with a clinician to suit the type and your situation.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy and bladder training
Lifestyle measures
Medical options for some types
Procedures in certain situations

When to see a specialist

If bladder leakage is affecting your daily life, confidence or activity, it's worth seeking help. It's common and treatable, and a clinician can talk through the options.