Frequently Asked Questions
Although it’s a common condition, most women do not seek medical advice. Rather than seek treatment, the vast majority adapt to their “problem” by altering their lifestyle. Reasons for failing to report symptoms include the perception that incontinence is “normal” with advancing age or that symptoms are not severe enough to treat.
- How common is bladder weakness?
An estimated 1 in 4 adult women have experienced bladder weakness at some time in their lives.
- Is bladder weakness a natural part of getting older?
No. Bladder weakness problems are not a normal part of getting older. A large proportion of people with bladder weakness who seek medical treatment experience improvements, including complete restoration of bladder control.
- Why is bladder weakness more common among women than men?
A woman’s urinary system is quite different to a man’s in many ways, and much more vulnerable to the type of problems (Muscle weakening from childbirth, overweight, infections etc.) that can lead to bladder weakness.
- Does going through childbirth always result in bladder weakness?
Definitely not. The vast majority of women who have babies do not have bladder weakness and of those who do, most have a slight and temporary problem just before or just after childbirth.
- Do menstrual pantiliners and pads absorb urine?
Menstrual pantiliners and pads are NOT designed to collect urine – they are designed to collect menstrual discharge. A well-designed product for bladder weakness can provide you with enough confidence to allow you to carry on your normal activities. Today, pantiliners and pads for bladder weakness come in a number of sizes. There will be one to suit your needs. They are sold in supermarkets, hypermarkets, health & beauty/personal care stores, and drug stores as well as Chinese medical halls. It is well worth the effort to spend time reading the packaging to find exactly which product is right for you.
- I’ve been hearing a lot about “overactive bladder” – what is this?
Overactive bladder is simply another name for urge incontinence, bladder irritations or unexpected muscle spasms that force urine out of the bladder.
- What treatments are available for bladder weakness?
For bladder weakness, or urinary incontinence, there is almost always something that can be done. Management strategies such as healthy lifestyle habits and doing pelvic floor exercises have proven very successful in improving bladder weakness. There are more options now for treatment and management than ever before. Surgeries are less invasive with fewer side effects and quicker recovery. More medications are available and absorbent products like POISE are now available. The key is that anyone who experiences bladder weakness should consult their doctor or health care professional.
- Can my diet affect my bladder weakness?
Yes, watching what you eat and drink can help. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids – at least 6 ½ cups per day. Avoid drinks that can cause excessive urine production such as caffeine and alcohol. Also avoid acidic juices like grapefruit juice and tomato juice that can irritate the bladder. Constipation can also contribute to bladder control problems. Eat foods that are high in fibre to help you stay regular.
- Does weight have an effect on bladder control?
Yes. Even a few kilos can make a difference. A five to ten percent weight loss can help improve bladder control by reducing intra-abdominal pressure.
- Can pelvic floor exercises help?
Your doctor may recommend that you practice pelvic floor exercises to help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
- What about “bladder training”, can this help?
Bladder training can be effective in helping people successfully increase the amount of time between trips to the toilet. If your doctor suggests bladder training, a bladder diary, as well as a schedule of activities that normally make up your day, will be important in developing a successful program for you.
- What about medications, can they help?
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication either alone, or in combination with behavioural treatment to help restore bladder control. Be aware that some medications may actually contribute to your bladder control problems. For this reason, be sure your doctor knows about all prescription and over–the–counter drugs you’re taking. All medications should be taken under the care of a physician.
- Will I need surgery to treat my bladder weakness?
Surgery is one of the many options available to manage bladder weakness, or urinary incontinence, when other management strategies have proven unhelpful. Every person’s situation is unique. Your doctor will work with you to determine what is best in your case.
Find out more Questions About POISE Products