Are leaky bladders a normal part of aging? Your friends might say yes, but the urogynecology experts at The Christ Hospital want you to know that no matter what your age, you don't have to live with a leaky bladder.; help is out there.

A leaky bladder—officially known as bladder dysfunction is a pelvic floor disorder that makes you leak urine uncontrollably. It affects nearly 50 percent of women and 25 percent of men, but many people suffer in silence.

Age is one risk factor for developing a leaky bladder because these conditions are more common as women get older. But it's not a normal part of aging – we also see 18-year-olds and 25-year-olds with these conditions.

Leaky bladders and pelvic floor disorders

More than one in four women over the age of 20 struggle with pelvic floor disorders like leaky bladders. Your pelvic floor consists of connective tissues, ligaments and muscles in the lower pelvis area. Sometimes these tissues or muscles can weaken or tear, causing a pelvic floor disorder. Common types of pelvic floor disorders seen by urogynecology experts at The Christ Hospital include bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain and painful intercourse.

Why do pelvic floor disorders occur? Research is still on-going, but experts have determined that highest-risk patients fall into the following categories: pregnancy and childbirth, menopause and post-menopausal senior years.

During each of these life stages, women are more susceptible to pelvic floor issues due to the strain in childbirth or the weakening pelvic floor muscles of hormones. Genetics can also play an important role—some women are just born with weaker pelvic floors.

Leaky bladder? We can help.

You don't have to live with the discomfort and uncertainty of a leaky bladder or any other pelvic floor disorder. The Christ Hospital urogynecology team offers many comprehensive treatment options to help rectify your pelvic floor issue, once and for all. We want our patients to understand that treatments are available. You don't have to live with these problems, no matter what your age.

Would you like to learn more about leaky bladders, pelvic floor disorders and other urogynecology issues? Our compassionate team of specialized physicians are here to help. Schedule an appointment online with one of our urogynecology specialists today.