What Causes a Leaky Bladder?

* Weak pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor muscles support the bladder and urethra. When these muscles are weak, they may not be able to hold urine in the bladder, especially when there is increased pressure, such as coughing or sneezing.

* Damage to the nerves that control the bladder. Nerve damage can affect the signals between the brain and the bladder, leading to incontinence. This type of incontinence is called neurogenic incontinence.

* Certain medical conditions. Some medical conditions can cause urinary incontinence, including:

* Diabetes

* Stroke

* Multiple sclerosis

* Parkinson's disease

* Alzheimer's disease

* Medications. Some medications can cause urinary incontinence as a side effect, including:

* Diuretics (water pills)

* Antidepressants

* Antipsychotics

* Sedatives

* Hypnotics

* Pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and damage the nerves that control the bladder, leading to incontinence.

* Aging. As people age, the pelvic floor muscles may weaken and the bladder may become less elastic, which can lead to incontinence.