While different types of bladder weakness can occur for various reasons, there are certain factors that increase the likelihood of a person developing symptoms. These include:
Pregnancy and vaginal birth
Menopause
Obesity
Family history
Strenuous exercise or heavy lifting
Age – it is more common over the age of 50
Certain medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, stroke, dementia, frequent urinary tract infections, constipation)
An enlarged prostate gland – known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Neurological damage (e.g. because of Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, brain injury)
Certain medications (e.g. diuretics, ACE inhibitors, some antidepressants, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), sedatives).