Urinary incontinence is the accidental release of urine. It can happen when you cough, laugh, sneeze, or jog. Or you may have a sudden need to go to the bathroom but can't get there in time. These problems are very common, especially among older adults. They usually don't cause major health problems.
Urinary incontinence may be caused by weak muscles in the lower urinary tract. They can also be caused by problems or damage either in the urinary tract or in the nerves that control urination. Another cause is bladder muscles that squeeze so hard that the sphincter muscle can't hold back the urine.