Some people with urinary incontinence fear nothing can be done to alleviate their problem. As a result, they may never seek medical help. The first thing to do is talk to a physician or urologist.

To establish a diagnosis, your doctor will ask you about your medical history and urinary habits. It is important that you accurately describe when and under what conditions you have problems controlling your bladder. It may help to keep track of when you urinate, as well as how much fluid you drink or eat, by writing these activities in a "voiding diary." It is important to understand when and under what conditions the incontinence occurs.

Because each patient with urinary incontinence is unique, doctors prescribe treatments based on the type and severity of incontinence.

Specialists such as urologists use a variety of testing methods to measure:

• How much urine is retained before urinating
• The force of the urine leaving the body
• The pressure within the bladder as it fills with urine
• Urethral sphincter muscle function

Common Tests
The following tests are commonly used to establish a diagnosis for urinary incontinence:

• Urinalysis-Examines urine for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities
• Stress Test-Measures any urine loss that may occur when pressure is put on bladder muscles through common physical activity, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, bending or lifting
• Post-Void Residual (PVR)-Measures the amount of urine left in the bladder after urinating
• Urodynamic Testing-Examines bladder and urethral function and may involve inserting a small tube, such as a catheter, into the bladder. X-rays also can be used to visualize the bladder function.
• Cystoscopy—A test that visually examines the urethra and bladder by inserting a small tube, called a cystoscope, into the urethra.

Choosing the Right Doctor
It's important to choose a physician that understands the latest treatment options, and has experience with them.