Urinary incontinence: how pelvic physiotherapy restored confidence and social life

By Leticia Profeta, Physiotherapist

Urinary incontinence is a condition that affects millions of people, especially women, but is rarely discussed openly due to the embarrassment it causes. Today I share the case of a lady who recovered not only urinary control, but also her self-esteem and social life through pelvic physiotherapy.

Social Isolation: when shame takes over

I received a patient who was experiencing an unfortunately common situation: involuntary urinary loss that was drastically impacting her quality of life.

How Incontinence affected her life:

• Stopped leaving the house for fear of accidents

• Progressive social isolation

• Loss of self-confidence

• Constant shame and embarrassment

• Limitation of daily activities

"Urinary incontinence is not just a physical problem - it's a condition that steals people's dignity and freedom."

The Assessment: identifying the real cause

During the physiotherapy assessment, I conducted a detailed analysis that included:

Functional assessment of the pelvic floor:

• Pelvic muscle strength

• Muscle coordination

• Muscle endurance

• Neurological function

• Micturition patterns

Physiotherapy Diagnosis:

The investigation revealed that the cause of incontinence was weakness of the pelvic musculature - a condition completely treatable with specialised physiotherapy.

The Treatment: Pelvic Physiotherapy

For this patient, a specific programme for strengthening the pelvic musculature was developed:

Treatment Protocol:

1. Progressive Kegel Exercises

• Slow and sustained contractions

• Quick contractions

• Progression of intensity and duration

2. Functional Training

• Exercises integrated into daily activities

• Breathing-pelvic contraction coordination

• Strengthening of auxiliary muscles

3. Education and Guidance

• Healthy micturition habits

• Correct positioning

• Favourable lifestyle

Transformative Results

After a few weeks of consistent treatment:

Complete Physical Recovery

• Total urinary control restored

• Effective muscle strengthening

• Physical confidence recovered

Social and Emotional Transformation

• Returned to leaving the house without worries

• Resumed social activities

• Recovered self-esteem

• Eliminated embarrassment

Risk factors for urinary incontinence

Main Causes:

• Pregnancy and normal delivery

• Natural ageing

• Obesity

• Pelvic surgeries

• Sedentary lifestyle

When to seek specialist help?

Warning signs:

• Urinary loss with effort (coughing, sneezing, laughing)

• Sudden urinary urgency

• Nocturia (waking several times to urinate)

• Sensation of incomplete emptying

• Impact on quality of life

"Don't accept incontinence as 'normal ageing' - in most cases, it's treatable!"

Prevention: essential care

Preventive exercises:

• Daily Kegel (even without symptoms)

• Core muscle strengthening

• Regular physical activity

Healthy habits:

• Adequate hydration (don't reduce water!)

• Weight control

• Avoid constipation

• Regular micturition (don't "hold it")

Myths and facts

❌ MYTH: "Incontinence is normal after 50"

✅ FACT: It's common, but not normal - it can be treated

❌ MYTH: "Only surgery resolves it"

✅ FACT: Pelvic physiotherapy is first-line treatment

❌ MYTH: "Men don't have incontinence"

✅ FACT: Affects both sexes, especially after prostate surgeries

Message of Hope

This case demonstrates that urinary incontinence doesn't need to be a sentence of social isolation. With adequate assessment and specialised treatment, it's possible to recover control, confidence and quality of life.

Do you or someone close to you suffer with urinary incontinence? Don't let shame prevent seeking treatment - the solution may be closer than you imagine.

About the Author

Leticia Profeta is a physiotherapist who dedicates herself to providing discreet, effective and patient-centered care treatment for conditions that affect patients' quality of life.

Need assessment for urinary incontinence? Book your confidential consultation today.

This article is based on real clinical experience and is for educational purposes. Always consult qualified professionals for proper assessment and treatment.