What Is Stress Incontinence? by Dr Fiona Wu

About Dr Fiona Wu

Dr Fiona Wu is a consultant urologist at Aare Urocare. She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the National University of Singapore (NUS). She later obtained a surgical fellowship with the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh in 2008.

In 2010, she completed her Master of Medicine (Surgery) and achieved Specialist Accreditation in Urology in 2015. She went on to complete a fellowship in Female and Reconstructive Urology at the University of Bern, Switzerland, in 2016. There, she trained with world-renowned reconstructive surgeons and gained experience in complex cases.

During her time at NUH, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, and Alexandra Hospital, Dr Wu introduced new treatments and technologies for patients across Singapore.

What Is Stress Incontinence?

Stress incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine when abdominal pressure rises. This can happen when a person sneezes, coughs, laughs, exercises, or makes sudden movements. The pelvic floor muscles or urinary sphincter may not be strong enough to hold urine under pressure.

How Stress Incontinence Affects Daily Life

Many people with stress incontinence feel embarrassed about leaks. The condition may limit their daily activities, especially exercise or sports that involve running and jumping. Some rely on pads or absorbent products for support, but these only provide short-term relief. Over time, the condition can significantly reduce quality of life.

Stress vs. Urge Incontinence

Stress incontinence is different from urge incontinence. Stress incontinence causes leakage when pressure is applied to the abdomen. Urge incontinence happens when there is a sudden, intense need to urinate, and the person cannot reach a toilet in time.

Some individuals experience both conditions, which is known as mixed incontinence. Because symptoms can overlap, doctors often recommend diagnostic tests to identify the main cause.

Why Diagnosis Matters

Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential. It helps doctors decide on the best treatment, whether that is pelvic floor physiotherapy, lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery. With proper care, many people regain confidence and improve their quality of life. PRIME

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