Leaking urine when you laugh, cough, or exercise can feel embarrassing. Many women quietly wonder whether it is simply something they have to accept as they get older. The short answer is no. Urinary incontinence is common with age, but it is not something you are expected to live with.
In Williamsville, New York, Jack G. Bertolino, MD, leads Smooth Solutions Medical Aesthetics and works with women from Buffalo who are looking for answers. As a board-certified family physician with advanced training in cosmetic and functional medicine, Dr. Bertolino focuses on healthy aging and offers non-surgical options such as ThermiVa to help support pelvic health.
Once you understand what is happening in your body, it becomes easier to see that there are real solutions available.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. It can range from occasional light leakage to a stronger, sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to stop.
There are different types. Stress incontinence happens when pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting, causes leakage. Urge incontinence involves a sudden, intense need to urinate followed by accidental loss of urine. Some women experience a mix of both.
Even mild symptoms can affect daily life. You might find yourself planning outings around bathroom access or avoiding certain activities altogether.
What Causes It?
Several factors can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and supportive tissues around the bladder.
Common causes include:
- Childbirth: Pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken pelvic tissues.
- Hormonal changes: Declining estrogen during perimenopause and menopause can thin vaginal and urethral tissues.
- Aging muscles: Like other muscles in the body, pelvic floor muscles lose strength over time.
- Chronic pressure: Ongoing coughing, weight gain, or heavy lifting can add stress to the bladder.
These changes often develop gradually, which is why many women assume leakage is just part of getting older.
Non-Surgical Support For Bladder Control
If bladder leaks are interfering with your comfort or confidence, it may be time to explore your options. Urinary incontinence may become more common with age, but that does not mean it is inevitable or untreatable. Treatments like ThermiVa use controlled radiofrequency energy to gently tighten vaginal tissues and support the pelvic area without surgery or downtime.
To learn more about ThermiVa and urinary incontinence treatment in Williamsville and Buffalo, call Smooth Solutions Medical Aesthetics at 716-633-6100 to schedule your consultation.
