5 Common Myths About Female Urinary Incontinence, Debunked

Urinary incontinence affects 62% of women 20 or older in some way, yet it remains an often misunderstood health concern. Many women don’t talk about their symptoms because they feel embarrassed or assume it's just a normal part of aging or childbirth. 

Know that urinary incontinence is not just something you simply have to live with. Urinary incontinence is both common and treatable, and debunking the myths around it is the first step toward reclaiming your confidence and comfort.

Here are five common misconceptions the OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills often hears — and the real facts you should know.

Myth: Urinary incontinence only affects older women

Reality: While age increases the likelihood of incontinence, it’s not exclusive to older women. Women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s can also experience bladder leaks due to factors like pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes, or high-impact exercise. Incontinence is a medical condition — not an inevitable part of aging.

Myth #2: Leaking urine is just something women have to accept after childbirth

Reality: Although childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and contribute to incontinence, it doesn’t mean you have to just tolerate it. 

There are highly effective treatment options, including pelvic floor physical therapy, lifestyle changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures to help restore control.

Myth #3: Drinking less water will help stop the leaks

Reality: Limiting fluids can actually make incontinence worse. Dehydration leads to concentrated urine, which can irritate the bladder and increase the urgency to go. Staying hydrated and identifying bladder irritants (like caffeine or artificial sweeteners) is a more effective way to manage symptoms.

Myth #4: You either have complete control or total incontinence

Reality: Incontinence isn’t an all-or-nothing condition. Some women experience occasional leaks when laughing or sneezing (stress incontinence), while others may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate (urge incontinence). Many women have a combination of both. Recognizing the type and severity is important to getting the right treatment.

Myth #5: There’s nothing you can do about it

Reality: Incontinence is highly treatable. From strengthening exercises and bladder training to non-surgical procedures and advanced therapies, Women’s Care of Beverly Hills offers many ways to improve or completely resolve symptoms. 

Seek treatment for urinary incontinence

If urinary incontinence is affecting your daily life, you don’t have to put up with it. At Women’s Care of Beverly Hills, we offer compassionate care and proven solutions customized to your unique needs. 

Call Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today or make an appointment online for any of your gynecological care needs, including urinary incontinence and bladder health.