Reflex incontinence

Reflex incontinence occurs as a result of neurological diseases also affecting the spinal cord or brain. This means a lack of voluntary control via the control center in the lower spinal cord. In such circumstances, the bladder functions in a "reflex" manner, as in a baby: emptying of it can be neither started nor interrupted consciously. Urination depends on how full the bladder is or is triggered by external stimuli beyond the influence of the person affected.

Reflex incontinence can be caused by, for example, spinal cord injuries with accompanying paraplegia and by multiple sclerosis or tumors.