Urge urinary incontinence is defined as leakage associated with a sudden, strong urge to void, usually due to detrusor overactivity causing involuntary contractions during bladder filling. Which statement best defines urge urinary incontinence?

• A. Leakage that occurs due to incomplete bladder emptying.
• B. Leakage that occurs with a sudden, strong urge to void due to detrusor overactivity during bladder filling.
• C. Leakage that occurs because of cognitive impairment preventing toilet access.
• D. Leakage that occurs with physical activity such as coughing or sneezing.

Answer: (B)

Urge urinary incontinence occurs when a sudden, compelling urge to void is followed by leakage because the detrusor muscle contracts involuntarily during bladder filling. This means the bladder contracts on its own as it fills, pushing urine out before you can reach the toilet. This mechanism distinguishes it from other types: leakage from incomplete emptying (overflow) happens as the bladder overfills and drains slowly; leakage due to cognitive or mobility issues (functional) stems from an inability to reach the toilet in time; leakage with coughing or sneezing (stress) results from pelvic floor or sphincter weakness allowing urine to escape with increased abdominal pressure. So the description of leakage triggered by a sudden strong urge during filling caused by detrusor overactivity best defines urge urinary incontinence.