This condition has left the 35-year-old constantly worried about how others perceive her, making daily tasks – including performing prayers – challenging. It has also led her to avoid social gatherings and events altogether.
The problem faced by this mother of three may be seen as trivial by some, but in reality, urinary incontinence – commonly known as a leaky bladder – can profoundly affect quality of life and erode self-confidence.
According to associate professor Dr Ixora Kamisan Atan, who has 17 years of experience in gynaecology and 12 years in urogynaecology, urinary incontinence refers to the inability of an individual to control urination.
Those with the condition often experience urine leakage during activities such as laughing, lifting objects, and rising from a seated position. They often struggle to reach the restroom in time.
“Common problems arising from weakened or impaired pelvic floor muscles include urinary leakage, faecal leakage, pelvic organ prolapse (uterine prolapse), and sexual dysfunction.”
She listed the two most common types of urinary incontinence, saying: “Stress urinary incontinence occurs when urine leaks involuntarily during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. In contrast, urge urinary incontinence is characterised by a sudden and intense urge to urinate.”
The condition, she said, is particularly common among women, especially those who have been pregnant and given birth, are menopausal, obese, suffer from nerve disorders or chronic illnesses such as diabetes or lung disease, are ageing, or lead unhealthy lifestyles.
Ixora said studies have shown 16-23% of women in Malaysia suffer from urinary leakage. What concerns her most is the widespread sense of embarrassment that often causes women to remain silent about the issue.
“They are often too embarrassed to discuss the issue openly, including hesitating to consult a doctor for advice and treatment. As a result, they experience feelings of insecurity, discomfort, stress, and depression.
“For Muslim women, it also creates challenges in performing prayers due to concerns about cleanliness and personal purity.
“As a result, some women change their lifestyle, avoiding social interactions and refraining from outdoor activities,” she said.
Ixora urges patients to consult doctors and seek guidance on appropriate treatment options. These may include referrals to physiotherapists for pelvic-floor strengthening exercises, medication or, if necessary, surgery.
Ixora also emphasises the importance of launching more educational programmes to raise awareness among women about urinary incontinence, while encouraging them to seek treatment instead of suffering in silence.
She further advises women to embrace a healthy lifestyle by maintaining an ideal body weight, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.
“Don’t wait for the condition to worsen – seek medical advice promptly. Don’t be embarrassed to sget treatment or share your concerns, as this is an abnormal condition that can significantly impact your quality of life,” she concluded.