Did you know that an estimated 20 million adults (85% women) of all ages experience unintentional urine loss, also known as incontinence? Some believe this number could be as high as 30 million because nearly one in four women with light urine loss have never discussed it with a health provider. There are two major types: stress and urge.
Stress incontinence is small amounts of urine leakage with high-impact exercise, coughing, sneezing, laughing and/or lifting. Sometimes, childbirth or some surgeries can weaken the muscles under the bladder, allowing urine to leak.
Urge incontinence is the need to urinate and the inability to get to the bathroom in time. Many women experience urge incontinence due to infections that irritate the bladder or urethra, which cause muscle spasms that force the urine out of the bladder.
Luckily, there are many treatments and products available today that can help. There are even some lifestyle changes that you can make that might make a difference. For example:
Drink lots of water — at least 6 to 8 cups per day. A common misconception among women with incontinence is that drinking less liquid will prevent accidents. In reality, limiting fluid intake can actually increase urine loss if the bladder becomes irritated.
A number of beverages have been reported to increase the occurrence of incontinence. These beverages should be limited or avoided: caffeinated coffees and teas, carbonated drinks, alcohol, citrus juices and milk products.
Watch your weight. Even a few extra pounds can contribute to light urine loss by adding pressure to your bladder. Keeping active can help you achieve your weight loss goals and feel better about yourself.
Kegel exercises help women strengthen the pelvic muscles, which can weaken during pregnancy and after childbirth. Always consult with your health care provider before starting any exercise program
Your health care provider might be one person you want to discuss this with for additional information. And check out our line of Alldays pantiliners. They offer great daily protection against period- and urine-related leaks.
