ABSTRACT
Behavioral interventions are a group of treatments that have been used for several decades to restore bladder control by improving bladder habits and teaching skills for inhibiting bladder overactivity. Cortical control of the micturition reflex is learned in childhood. The skills we learn as children allow us to empty the bladder when conditions are suitable or to delay voiding to a time when conditions are more appropriate. These skills include the ability to inhibit or disinhibit bladder contraction and to contract or relax pelvic floor muscles. When control over the micturition reflex is lost, symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), including urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, and/or nocturia manifest. While pharmacological agents can inhibit the bladder directly, it is optimal to have volitional control over bladder activity.
