What is urinary incontinence (UI)?

Urinary incontinence (UI) is defined as the involuntary loss or leakage of urine. This condition can occur for a variety of reasons, including weakened pelvic floor muscles, neurological disorders, or other underlying health issues that impair the normal control of urination. Individuals with UI may experience urine leakage while laughing, coughing, sneezing, or even during physical activity, and this condition can significantly affect one's quality of life and social interactions.

The other options describe concepts related to urinary function but do not accurately define urinary incontinence. The ability to hold urine relates to bladder control which, when impaired, can lead to UI. The intermittent inability to urinate refers to a different issue, such as urinary retention or obstruction. The need to void frequently, known as urgency or frequency, does not specifically encompass the involuntary aspect of UI but rather focuses on the frequency of urination itself. Thus, the most accurate description of urinary incontinence is indeed the involuntary loss or leakage of urine.