Diagnosing Incontinence

If you’re limiting your activities because of bladder leaks, it’s time to see a health care provider. Urinary incontinence can have several causes, and getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward finding relief. 

At Banner Health, our urology experts use advanced testing to understand what’s causing your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. 

What to expect during your exam 

Your visit may start with a discussion about your health history and symptoms. Your provider may ask when the leaking started, how often it happens and what makes it better or worse. You may also be asked about your diet, medications and fluid intake. 

A physical exam may follow to check your pelvic area, muscle strength and nerve function. This helps your provider identify possible underlying causes such as infection, pelvic floor weakness or nerve issues. 

Tests used to diagnose urinary incontinence 

Your provider may recommend one or more tests to better understand your bladder function and urinary control: 

• Urinalysis: Checks a urine sample for signs of infection, blood or other abnormalities. 
• Bladder diary: You may be asked to track how often you urinate, how much fluid you drink and any leakage episodes. 
• Voiding assessment: Measures how much urine remains in your bladder after urinating to see if it empties completely. 
• Cough or stress test: Checks if you leak urine when you cough, laugh or strain. 
• Pad test: Measures the amount of urine leakage over a set period of time. 
• Cystoscopy: Uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your urethra and bladder. 
• Uroflowmetry: Measures how fast and how much urine you release. 
• Urodynamic testing: Evaluates how well your bladder, sphincter and urethra store and release urine. 
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to look for structural problems or other causes. 

Next steps after diagnosis 

Once your provider identifies the type and cause of incontinence, they’ll explain your treatment options. Treatment may include pelvic floor exercises, medications, nerve stimulation or surgical procedures. 

Learn more about the treatment options for urinary incontinence available at Banner Health. 

Why choose Banner Health for bladder care 

Banner Health’s urology specialists provide compassionate, expert care for bladder conditions of all types. We offer advanced diagnostic testing, minimally invasive treatments and supportive follow-up care - all designed to help you regain confidence and quality of life. 

Find a urology specialist near you.