Q. What could be causing my stress incontinence?

A. Stress incontinence is caused by weak bladder muscles, which can affect women of all ages. The following factors can cause these muscles to weaken:

• Pregnancy and childbirth, which can damage nerves and muscles that affect bladder control
• A hysterectomy, which may damage pelvic nerves or muscles
• Low estrogen levels that come with menopause—estrogen levels affect muscle tone in the pelvis
• Nerve problems that affect bladder muscles
• Aging, which may cause changes to your anatomy that affect bladder control