More than 6 in 10 women suffer from incontinence and it can
become a more common problem as they get older.
[1] Stress and urge incontinence are the two most common types, affecting women for
a variety of reasons.
Menopause can affect a woman’s bladder control, usually due
to weakened pelvic muscles which can result in a more frequent need to visit
the toilet. Another issue may be a less elastic bladder, which can contribute
to an overactive bladder as it cannot stretch as much to accommodate more urine.
Pregnancy and childbirth are other contributors to female
urinary incontinence as they can weaken the pelvic floor muscles as well. Changing
hormones can affect the lining of the bladder and increased pressure from
coughing, laughing or sneezing can also cause incontinence. To help manage urinary
incontinence, Kegel exercises have long been used as a way to strengthen the
muscles in the pelvic floor. Another technique is bladder training, where the
individual creates a bladder diary to re-teach their bladder to hold more
urine.
It is important to seek medical advice and talk to your
doctor or a continence professional about your symptoms. Visit your local
Blooms The Chemist Pharmacy team for more information and recommendations on
the best incontinence products for you. Shop in-store for a vast range of
incontinence products including incontinence pads and pants for men and
incontinence pads for women.
Shop our Continence Care Products
[1] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/incontinence