Introduction to urinary incontinency
Urinary incontinence (UI) refers to the involuntary release of urine that may occur as a result of physiologic, pharmacologic, pathologic or psychological factors. The loss of urine is visible in the affected individuals and may pose a social or hygienic problem. Women are affected about three times more commonly than men till the age of 80 years. The incidence in men and women above the age of 80 years is almost similar. It has been estimated that about 10 million Americans are affected by UI of which 85% are women. The incidence of UI in India is about 12%, wherein 5–7% affected women are between the age groups 15–44 years and the remainig are above 45 years of age. ^{1, 2}

Causes of urinary incontinency
Urinary incontinence is a disorder with multiple factors, wherein some of them are transient and others are permanent. Various risk factors have been associated with increased incidence of UI.                    
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Signs and Symptoms of urinary incontinency
As described in the causes, the affected individual may suffer from involuntary loss of urine under different circumstances. It may occur when an individual laughs, coughs and performs exercises, and when there is a   
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Diagnosis of urinary incontinency
The diagnosis of UI is simply based on the signs and symptoms observed. However, a detailed analysis is required to identify the exact underlying cause that has resulted in UI. A detailed personal and medical history is taken. The  
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Treatment of urinary incontinency
The management of UI depends on various factors such as age of the individual, type of incontinence, underlying cause and severity of the condition. It may range from minor modification in the medications being consumed to   
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Complications of urinary incontinency
Specific complications such as social inhibition, frequent urinary tract infections, and formation of kidney stones may be associated with UI. Some other complications may be associated with the type of underlying disorder. 

Prevention of urinary incontinency
The lifestyle changes advised before may help in reducing the incidence to a certain extent. Performing exercises such as Kegel’s exercise to strengthen the pelvic muscles during pregnancy and after delivery can prevent incontinence associated with pregnancy.