Are you hiding a bladder problem?

While leaking may be a regular occurrence for many women, you don't have to put up with it

- DR PHILIPPA KAYE

Do you ever leak urine when you cough or sneeze, or squeeze your legs together when you laugh? Perhaps you've put the key in the front door, found yourself suddenly desperate to get to the loo, and not quite made it?

Urinary incontinence - be it what you might consider a small trickle or a larger amount - is not a normal part of getting older, and you do not have to put up with it. It can be difficult to go to the doctor to discuss issues like this but, rest assured, although you may feel embarrassed, we are not. Every doctor will have seen and heard about your particular condition before and - most importantly - there's help and treatment available.

There are various different conditions affecting the urinary system and organs in the pelvis, which can cause incontinence. These often worsen after the menopause due to the impact of the lower levels of oestrogen. Conditions include stress incontinence, overactive bladder syndrome and prolapse - and these can overlap.

'Leaking urine? Your GP can help'

The pelvic floor is like a hammock of muscles which sits in the pelvis, supporting the womb, bladder and bowel. If the pelvic floor weakens - perhaps related to the menopause, pregnancy and childbirth, chronic constipation or coughing - stress incontinence can occur. This can cause - leakage of urine on coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise.