Urge Incontinence vs. Stress Incontinence: What’s the Difference?
Urinary incontinence is more common than you might think—and often, it's not talked about enough. At Rhode Island Pelvic Wellness, we see many individuals who feel confused, embarrassed, or frustrated by their symptoms. A key step in managing incontinence is understanding the type you’re experiencing. Two of the most common forms are urge incontinence and stress incontinence. While they may sound similar, they have different causes and treatment approaches.
What is Urge Incontinence?
Urge incontinence is the sudden, intense need to urinate—often followed by involuntary leakage before you can make it to the bathroom. It’s associated with overactive bladder (OAB) and may feel like your bladder is running the show.
Common signs of urge incontinence include:
Frequent urination, often more than 8 times a day
Waking up more than once a night to urinate (nocturia)
Leaking urine on the way to the bathroom
Causes may include:
Neurological conditions
Bladder irritants (like caffeine or alcohol)
Urinary tract infections
Pelvic floor dysfunction
What is Stress Incontinence?
Stress incontinence occurs when pressure on the bladder causes urine to leak. This can happen when you cough, laugh, sneeze, run, or lift something heavy. It’s especially common in women post-childbirth or during menopause due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
You might notice stress incontinence if you:
Leak urine when exercising or moving suddenly
Experience leakage with coughing, sneezing, or laughing
Leak urine when picking up objects
Risk factors include:
Pregnancy and childbirth
Pelvic surgery
Aging and hormonal changes
Chronic coughing or constipation
Chronic poor bladder habits
Too ‘loose’ or too ‘tight’ pelvic floor muscles
Uncoordinated pelvic floor muscles
Can You Have Both?
Yes—many people experience mixed incontinence, which combines symptoms of both urge and stress incontinence. This can be especially frustrating, but the good news is that a personalized pelvic floor physical therapy plan can help address both components effectively.
The Rhode Island Pelvic Wellness Difference
At Rhode Island Pelvic Wellness, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care. We take the time to understand your unique symptoms, history, and goals, and develop a treatment plan that works for you. Whether you’re dealing with leakage during workouts or racing to the bathroom, we’re here to help you regain control and confidence—without judgment.
Our expert team specializes in pelvic floor therapy for all genders and life stages. We combine hands-on therapy, education, and customized home programs to help you see real progress—quickly and safely. Learn more about us here!
Ready to Take the First Step?
✅ Book a Free Phone Consultation
Let’s talk about what’s going on and how we can help.
✅ Schedule Your Initial Evaluation
Get started on a path toward strength, control, and confidence.
