Health – That wee problem

Urinary incontinence, it turns out, is not a wee problem, but actually a very large one for many Kiwis. While some men do suffer from this, it is largely regarded as a woman’s issue given that it is six times more prevalent in females with 50 percent of women over the age of 50 suffering with incontinence. 

The cause is usually childbirth and menopause but it can also be caused by pelvic floor disorders and, temporarily, by urinary tract infections. Leakage can be anything from a few drops to a completely involuntary emptying of the bladder. However, any amount of leakage should be given attention. 

There are several different types of urinary incontinence, but 90 percent of women in New Zealand suffer from either stress incontinence, urgency incontinence or a mixture of the two. Stress incontinence is leakage associated with physical activity or increased pressure from actions such as coughing or sneezing. Urgency incontinence (overactive bladder) is leakage associated with a sudden need to pee. When a woman experiences stress incontinence, the bladder muscles and pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder and pelvic organs are usually not functioning properly, so what can be done?

Here are some lifestyle changes that you can try to improve your symptoms:

• Avoid drinks that irritate the bladder such as caffeine and alcohol. • Try something natural. Formulas are available that may help symptoms. Of note is a formula containing horsetail, crataeva and lindera aggregata. Research shows that this combination may help to reduce the symptoms of incontinence including frequency, urgency and leakage. The studies indicate that it may strengthen and tone the muscles of the bladder wall, pelvic floor and sphincter as well as supporting the healthy connective tissue around the area that allows the bladder to fill properly and empty effectively. Products containing this particular mix of herbs take up to eight weeks to have a full effect. • Strengthing the pelvic floor muscles can help, but you will need to make sure you are exercising these correctly. Speak to a healthcare professional • Avoid constipation – increase fibre and water in your diet. • If you are very overweight, losing weight can help. • Stop smoking – smoking causes coughing which, in turn, can worsen incontinence. • Studies show that increased cardiovascular fitness can reduce incontinence. Start slow!

There are disposable pads and pants available for different volumes of leakage. However, the latest, more environmentally friendly, option is much easier on the pocket – washable, non-disposable underwear for incontinence is available in many pharmacies.

Some pharmacies also have pelvic floor devices to help strengthen the area. Check with the pharmacist to see if these would be suitable for you. For more advanced care, specialised women’s health physiotherapists can prove invaluable and of course your doctor can prescribe medication and/or provide a host of other medical solutions if necessary.