incontinence

in·con·ti·nence

noun \(ˌ)in-ˈkän-tə-nən(t)s\

Definition of INCONTINENCE

:  the quality or state of being incontinent: as

a :  failure to restrain sexual appetite :  unchastity

b :  inability of the body to control the evacuative functions of urination or defecation

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First Known Use of INCONTINENCE

14th century

in·con·ti·nence

noun \(ˈ)in-ˈkänt-^ən-ən(t)s\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of INCONTINENCE

1

: inability or failure to restrain sexual appetite

2

: inability of the body to control the evacuative functions <fecal incontinence>—see stress incontinence, urge incontinence

incontinence

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Inability to control the excretion of urine or feces. Starting and stopping urination relies on normal function in pelvic and abdominal muscles, diaphragm, and control nerves. Babies' nervous systems are too immature for urinary control. Later incontinence may reflect disorders (e.g., neural tube defect causing “neurogenic bladder”), paralysis of urinary system muscles, long-term bladder distension, or certain urogenital malformations. Weak pelvic muscles can allow small urine losses on coughing or sneezing (“stress incontinence”). Uncontrolled defecation can result from spinal or bodily injuries, old age, extreme fear, or severe diarrhea. See also enuresis.