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There's only one symptom of stress incontinence: you leak urine when there's extra pressure on your bladder and the muscles around it.

Leaking usually happens suddenly when you laugh, cough, sneeze, exercise or lift something. Sometimes it happens if you just stand up.¹

• At first, leaking may happen only once in a while. And you may leak only a little urine. It's a nuisance rather than embarrassing.
• The problem may get worse if you don't do anything about it.² You may start to leak more urine, more often. You may need to change your underwear several times a day. And you may need to wear pads.
• Stress incontinence may get so bad that you're afraid to leave your house.³ This can make you feel depressed.³

Not all women with incontinence find it a problem. If you leak a little urine only occasionally you may not be bothered by it. But if you find that it interferes with life, it's worth seeing your doctor. There are some very simple treatments that work well.

It's never too late to get help. Treatments can help even if you've had symptoms for a few years.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.