Urinary incontinence (stress incontinence) is defined as the involuntary release of varying amounts of urine during physical exertion or activity, which is not preceded by an urge to urinate, but occurs suddenly with pressure on the abdomen. In mild cases of incontinence, the pressure may occur as a result of sudden activity such as exercise, sneezing, coughing or laughing. In more severe cases, this is seen with light physical activity such as standing, walking or even bending over. This condition mainly affects women. About 1 in 3 women suffer from stress incontinence at some point in their lives. The incidence of the disease increases with age. Stress incontinence in men usually occurs after surgery for prostate cancer or pelvic nerve damage. The main symptom of stress incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine during any activity that increases abdominal pressure. The amount can be from a few drops to tablespoons or more. The pelvic floor supports the bladder and urethra. If this area becomes stretched, weakened, or “traumatized,” it can lead to the development of incontinence. Risk factors can be pregnancy, childbirth, chronic cough, overweight, smoking, trauma to the nerves in the lower spine or pelvis, leading to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. The disease occurs more often in elderly women, but this does not mean that the cause is only advancing age and gender. Younger women and men can also be affected. In some young women, the pelvic floor muscles may be damaged during childbirth and the disease may develop after an indefinite period of time. The diagnosis is made with the help of a well-taken history. Many details are important, such as when and how often the incontinence occurs, whether it is accompanied by other complaints, whether there is an urge to urinate, and how strong the stream is. In order to assess incontinence, the so-called “micturition diary” in which the time, amount and other circumstances of passing urine are recorded. The questions are followed by a physical examination, which for men includes an examination of the prostate and rectum. Examination of urine and blood, as well as sonographic examination of the bladder and urethra are also part of the basic diagnostic procedures. Certain lifestyle changes can go a long way in controlling stress incontinence symptoms. In some cases, you may resort to using absorbent pads daily or occasionally. They are used preoperatively, as well as during the postoperative recovery period. Absorbent dressings come in a variety of designs and sizes. Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. They are performed by contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles repeatedly each day.The pelvic floor muscles help support the bladder and other organs. Regular exercise in this area can strengthen the muscles and lead to relief or even elimination of symptoms. Constipation can make incontinence worse. Try to prevent the occurrence of constipation by taking foods with a high fiber content (fruits, legumes, greens) and a sufficient amount of fluids (1.5-2 l). Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Chronic coughing due to the use of cigarettes can increase the frequency and severity of incontinence, and also lead to increased pressure on the pelvic floor.