Posted By Author on February 3, 2026
Incontinence, whether urinary or fecal, is a common yet often misunderstood health challenge that affects millions of Americans, significantly impacting quality of life and daily confidence. Many people suffer in silence, unsure of what it is or how to find lasting relief. At Charleston GI, we believe that understanding incontinence is the first step toward overcoming it and regaining control.
In this blog, we’ll explain what incontinence is, why it happens, and the spectrum of treatment options available today – from lifestyle and behavioral strategies to medical therapies. We’ll also highlight insights from a recent HealthLinks article on “Overcoming Incontinence,” where our own Dr. Marc Noble explores how advanced solutions like InterStim therapy can reconnect the brain and nerves to improve bladder and bowel function for patients who haven’t found relief with traditional methods.
Whether you’re newly experiencing symptoms or have struggled with incontinence for years, we are here to help you understand your condition and the effective paths to overcoming it with expert care right here at Charleston GI.
What Is Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine, or “leaking pee,” which can have a negative impact on a person’s life.
The urinary system is made up of your kidneys, two ureters, your bladder, and the urethra, working in concert to filter, store, and eliminate waste from your body as urine. When this system is functioning correctly, you typically have enough time to reach a bathroom before peeing. Incontinence occurs when parts of this system, including the bladder, do not operate as they should. This malfunction can happen for a variety of reasons at any point in life.
While the risk of incontinence increases with age, it is not simply a normal or untreatable part of aging. It can affect anyone of any age, and treatments are available to manage it. Incontinence does not have to disrupt your life or limit your activities.
This condition is very common, with approximately 62% of females aged 20 and older experiencing some form of urinary incontinence, compared to approximately 14% of males.
Types of Incontinence: Urinary vs. Fecal
The main types of incontinence include:
- Urge Incontinence: This involves a sudden, intense need to urinate, often leading to leakage before you can reach the restroom. A common underlying cause is an overactive bladder.
- Stress Incontinence: Leakage occurs during activities that increase bladder pressure, such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, running, jumping, or lifting heavy items.
- Overflow Incontinence: With this type, the bladder does not empty completely when you urinate. It is more common in individuals with an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or certain conditions like a stroke or diabetes.
- Mixed Incontinence: This is a combination of two or more types of incontinence, for example, having both stress incontinence and an overactive bladder. If you suspect mixed incontinence, carefully note what you are doing when leakage occurs.
A healthcare provider can assist in pinpointing the exact type of incontinence you are experiencing and discuss management options. The first crucial step is determining what triggers the leakage.
Advanced Treatment Options for Incontinence
For patients who do not find relief with lifestyle changes or medication, advanced treatments like InterStim therapy may offer an effective solution. As highlighted in the HealthLinks article “Overcoming Incontinence,” InterStim is a small, implantable device that delivers mild electrical pulses to the sacral nerve, helping restore communication between the brain, bladder, and bowels to improve control of urinary and fecal incontinence.
At Charleston GI, candidates for InterStim begin with a short trial period using a temporary stimulator to see if symptoms improve. If successful, the minimally invasive outpatient procedure typically takes about 30 minutes and requires little ongoing maintenance. The device can last up to 10 years, is MRI compatible, and is often covered by insurance, including Medicare.
For the right candidates, InterStim therapy can be life-changing, helping patients regain confidence, independence, and the ability to enjoy everyday activities again.
Take Control and Move Forward With Confidence With Charleston GI
Incontinence can be challenging, but it is also highly treatable with the right care and support. By understanding what incontinence is, what causes it, and the range of treatment options available, from lifestyle changes to advanced solutions like InterStim therapy, you can take meaningful steps toward improving your quality of life. No one should feel embarrassed or alone when dealing with bladder or bowel control issues.
At Charleston GI, our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help patients find relief and regain confidence. If incontinence is affecting your daily routine, comfort, or peace of mind, scheduling a consultation is an important first step. With today’s innovative treatments and expert guidance, overcoming incontinence is possible, and a more comfortable, confident future is within reach.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace care from a qualified healthcare provider, and results may vary. Viewing this page does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Information submitted through this website is not protected health information unless provided through a secure patient portal. Always consult a licensed provider about your individual care.
