What describes overflow incontinence?

Overflow incontinence is characterized by the involuntary leakage of small amounts of urine from a bladder that is overly full. This condition often arises when the bladder cannot empty completely, leading to an accumulation of urine that exceeds the bladder's capacity to hold it. As a result, pressure builds up and causes urine to leak out involuntarily.

Individuals experiencing overflow incontinence may have a weak bladder muscle or a blockage that prevents proper urination. The small amounts of leakage occur because, despite the inability to void effectively at times, the bladder still continues to fill. This contrasts with conditions like urge incontinence, where there is a strong, sudden urge to urinate, and total loss of sensation of the need to urinate, which describes different types of urinary incontinence.

Understanding overflow incontinence is critical for developing effective management strategies and treatment plans that can include pelvic floor exercises, medication, or in some cases, surgical interventions to relieve blockages or improve bladder function.