One in three women in the UK over the age of 18 are affected by Adult Incontinence (AI), according to a new study. So it's time we get rid of this last taboo.
Health on Female First
The study reveals that of the estimated 12 million women in Britain who experience the previously ‘unspoken’ condition, over half have struggled with depression, 48% regularly feel bad about themselves and two thirds feel embarrassed.
The research also goes on to reveal the physical impact of the condition, as it affects sleeping patterns and exhausation takes over as they feel they have to keep their AI hidden from their partners, families and friends.
In fact, this common phenomenon can happen to women at any age for many reasons including: childbirth the menopause or strenuous exercise. With many AI sufferers then avoiding the latter, they may then experience weight gain, which in turn becomes a trigger, only adding to feelings of low self-esteem and body confidence.
Dr Sarah Jarvis explains: “In an age where celebrities seem happy to bare all and share all, adult incontinence seems to be one of the last taboos in our society. The results of this study reveal the true impact that one third of the female population in the UK is currently suffering, often in silence, with a condition wrongly associated with elderly women.”
As well as unearthing the physical and mental impact of sensitive bladder, the research also reveals the negative effects the condition has on women’s relationships. More than a quarter admitted that the condition affects sexual intimacy and two thirds spend time worrying that they might smell.
Dr Jarvis continues: “The embarrassment which these women feel suffering with a condition they can’t ever talk about has a real knock-on effect on their social life – whether exercising or taking long car trips – and on their relationships with their partners.
“Women with AI tend to keep the problem to themselves for years without discussing it with anyone, even their family doctor or gynaecologist. They don’t always realise that help is available and that there are the right products out there that offer the comfort and protection women need to live life to the full”, explains Dr Jarvis.
To help those who are suffering Dr Jarvis shares her must-know tips.
Tips & Tricks from practicing GP and Always Discreet Ambassador Dr Sarah Jarvis on taking care of your sensitive bladder
KEEP MOVING
Low impact sports such as cycling, yoga or Nordic walking are ideal activities to keep you fit without affecting your sensitive bladder condition.
NOT TOO MANY CRUNCHES
Abdominal workouts like sit ups, crunches or plank kicks place a lot of pressure on your pelvic floor. Opt for alternative exercises where breathing or your position supports your pelvic floor. Pelvic floor exercises and targeted Pilates and yoga exercises can be particularly helpful.
PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES
By practicing at least three times a day, these exercises can help you strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and give you more control when you need it. If you’re not sure how to do them, speak to your doctor or visit www.alwaysdiscreet.co.uk
DRINK JUST ENOUGH
There’s no need to avoid drinking in order to reduce the urge to visit the bathroom. Limiting your water intake makes your urine more concentrated, which boost your chances of bladder irritation.
Keep hydrated.
NO HEAVY LIFTING
Lifting heavy objects is really bad for the pelvic floor … and your back. It’s best to ask for help from those around you.
BYE, BYE BARISTA
Caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks could be your new worst enemies. So try limiting those coffees, teas and carbonated beverages for a week or two to see if it helps – they can irritate a sensitive bladder.
SET A SCHEDULE
Your bladder is trainable: if you’re troubled by needing to pass water very often and needing to rush to the toilet, talk with your doctor about a daily schedule to build up your bladder’s holding capacity. Remember; allow your bladder to empty completely each time you go to the toilet.
STAY COMFORTABLE & PROTECTED
Wear a product that has the right protection for you. The innovative design of New Always Discreet line –up is tailored to fit the needs of all women with a sensitive bladder
Tagged in Women's Health