Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for stress urinary incontinence?

• A. Vaginal delivery
• B. Age and race
• C. Coffee intake
• D. Obesity

Answer: (C)

Stress incontinence happens when the pelvic floor and urethral support can’t hold urine in during activities that raise abdominal pressure, like coughing or sneezing. Coffee intake isn’t a risk factor for this type because caffeine mainly irritates the bladder and can trigger urgency, not the loss of pelvic support that causes stress incontinence. The factors that do increase risk are those that weaken pelvic floor or raise pressure inside the abdomen: vaginal delivery can damage pelvic tissues; obesity raises intra-abdominal pressure; and aging leads to weaker pelvic muscles and connective tissue. So, while age is related to higher risk, coffee doesn’t contribute to the mechanism of stress incontinence, though it may worsen urgency-related symptoms if they’re present.