Incontinence.

Can we talk about something personal for a minute? Let’s take a minute and think about our bladders, ladies. We know nobody wants to think about, let alone talk about, our bladders, but leaking urine is a real problem for many women. As women’s health providers, we are embarrassingly under-treating these concerns. Leaking happens! We can help!

There are different types of incontinence. Women can leak urine when they cough, laugh, sneeze, lift, jump, or have pressure in the pelvic area. This is very common and many women will wear pads or change underwear throughout the day. It is especially common as we age or if we have been pregnant. Other factors can make this symptom worse, such as poor muscle tone in the pelvis and being overweight. 

Another type of incontinence is urge incontinence. This happens when women have a difficult time making it to the bathroom when they feel the urge to urinate. Sometimes the bladder is ready to empty before YOU are! 

Women who struggle with incontinence are more likely to avoid activities, sexual intimacy, and will often purchase pads or other supplies to maintain comfort. Incontinence can impact quality of life. It is oftentimes brought on gradually and gets worse over time, so women don’t always realize how much their lives are impacted. Once treated, many women will express more relief than they were expecting. 

At NP Women’s Health, Kelly and Sarah are interested in improving women’s lives. If incontinence is bothering you, please let us know! We offer suggestions about exercising the pelvic muscles, medications that may help relax the bladder muscle, or even neuromodulators that help the brain and bladder communicate more effectively. If we feel surgery could benefit you, we arrange for you to see a specialist. You do not have to be held captive by your bladder!