Urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence during perimenopause may include stress incontinence (leaking with coughing or exercise) or urge incontinence (sudden strong need to urinate). Declining estrogen affects urethral and bladder tissue.
How to track
- Log each episode with timestamp and type (stress vs. urge).
- Note triggering activities: laughing, sneezing, exercise, lifting.
- Track fluid intake and caffeine/alcohol consumption.
- Record urgency level and whether you reached the bathroom in time.
Common context
Episodes may increase during hormonal fluctuations, with caffeine intake, or during high-impact activities. Tracking helps identify modifiable triggers.
What to bring to a clinician
- How many episodes occur per day or week?
- What percentage are stress vs. urge incontinence?
- What activities most commonly trigger leakage?
- Have you tried pelvic floor exercises or lifestyle modifications?