Fellowship-Trained Urogynecologist
Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
Green Bay, Wisconsin
✓ Medically reviewed March 2026
Is Urinary Incontinence a Normal Part of Aging?
No. This is one of the most common and most harmful myths about urinary incontinence. While bladder control problems become more prevalent as women age, incontinence is never a normal or inevitable consequence of getting older. It’s a medical condition with identifiable causes and effective treatments — at any age.
Why This Myth Persists
The confusion is understandable. Incontinence is more common in older women, and several age-related changes can contribute to bladder control problems:
- Declining estrogen levels weaken urethral and vaginal tissues
- Natural loss of muscle mass affects pelvic floor strength
- Chronic health conditions become more common
- Medications taken for other conditions may affect bladder function
But these are contributing factors, not inevitable outcomes. Many women live into their 80s and 90s without incontinence, while some women in their 20s experience significant leaking.
Aging changes the landscape, but it doesn’t determine the outcome. I’ve treated women in their 70s and 80s who are now dry and active. Age is never a reason to accept incontinence.
The Real Cost of Accepting It
When women believe incontinence is just part of aging, they stop seeking help. The consequences extend far beyond inconvenience:
- Social isolation — avoiding outings, travel, and gatherings
- Reduced physical activity — giving up exercise, which accelerates other age-related decline
- Fall risk — rushing to the bathroom, especially at night
- Depression and anxiety — loss of independence and confidence
- Skin problems — chronic moisture can lead to irritation and infections
Treatment Works at Every Age
Every treatment option available to younger women is also available to older women:
- Pelvic floor therapy — muscles respond to exercise at any age
- Vaginal estrogen — restores tissue health safely
- Medications — appropriate options exist for all age groups
- Minimally invasive procedures — Botox, nerve stimulation, and slings can all be performed safely in older patients with appropriate evaluation
I never let age alone determine what treatments we consider. What matters is your overall health, your goals, and what’s affecting your quality of life. Every woman deserves to be continent.
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