Pelvic Floor Problems Can Cause Hidden Urine Leakage

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports organs such as the bladder, uterus and bowel.

If these muscles become weak, urine may leak when someone coughs, jumps, laughs or exercises.

Priya Bhuvad had this problem for almost two years before seeking help.

Doctors found that some of her pelvic organs had moved downward and were pressing into the vagina.

Surgery helped improve her symptoms.

Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken these muscles, but they are not the only causes.

Long-lasting coughing, constipation, obesity and heavy lifting can also put pressure on them.

Exercises and physiotherapy may help, but people need to learn the correct technique.

Women are encouraged not to assume that leakage or pelvic heaviness is a normal part of ageing or motherhood.