Frequently Asked Questions
Although it’s a common condition, fewer than 40 percent of incontinent individuals 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 control loss?
Approximately 1 in 3 women who have had a baby experience some degree of bladder control loss – that’s over 1 million women in Australia and New Zealand.*
- Is bladder control loss a natural part of getting older?
No. Bladder control problems are not an inevitable part of getting older. A large proportion of people with bladder control loss who seek medical treatment realise improvements, including complete restoration of bladder control.
- Why is bladder control loss more common among women than men?
Women’s waterworks are quite different to men’s in many ways, and much more vulnerable to the type of problems (Muscle and new damage from childbirth, overweight, infections etc.) that can lead to bladder control loss.
- Does going through childbirth always result in bladder control loss?
Definitely not. The vast majority of women who have babies do not have bladder control loss and of those who do, most have a slight and temporary problem just before or just after childbirth.
- Do sanitary pads and panty liners absorb urine?
Sanitary pads and panty liners are NOT designed to collect urine – they are designed to collect blood. A well-designed product for bladder weakness can provide you with enough confidence to allow you to carry on your normal activities. Today, pads and panty liners for bladder weakness come in a good range of styles and sizes. There will be one just right to suit your needs. They are sold in pharmacies as well as supermarkets, and 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 control loss?
For all types of urinary incontinence there is almost always something that can be done. Conservative management strategies have proven very successful in improving urinary incontinence. Medical science continues to discover more options for treatment and management every day. Surgeries are less invasive with fewer side effects and quicker recovery. More medications are available and absorbent products have improved a great deal. Your doctor will be able to recommend the right treatment for you.
- Can my diet affect my bladder control?
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 control loss?
Surgery is one of the many options available to manage urinary incontinence when conservative management strategies have proven unhelpful. Every person’s urinary incontinence is unique. Your doctor will work with you to determine what is best in your case.
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*P. Chiarelli, W. Bower, A. Wilson, D. Sibbritt. The Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence Within the Community: A Systematic Review New Zealand Continence Association Inc.