Childbirth and incontinence

Childbirth - and particularly the birth of the first child - is a major cause of incontinence in women. Up to one in three women become incontinent after the birth of their first child. A recent review in the British Medical Journal says that "scant attention" is paid to these common conditions. But, says the BMJ, "while the problem is clear, there is no simple solution." The review says that more research and creative approaches are needed. In the meantime, women need information, regular check ups and good support from health workers.