Chapter: HEALTH CARE TIPS FOR DIGESTIVE AND URINARY TRACTS
Dealing with stress incontinence
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Sudden, strong pressure (stress) on your bladder
from exercising, coughing, sneezing or heavy lifting can cause incontinence.
This "leaky bladder," called stress incontinence, is common among
women. Treatment varies, depending on severity. Talk with your doctor about
options, such as:
� Kegel exercises
To do Kegel exercises, imagine that you're
trying to stop your flow of urine. Squeeze the muscles you'd use and hold for a
count of three. Relax for three counts. Repeat. Do these several times a day.
With a simple physical exam, your doctor can help you identify these muscles
and learn to do Kegels. Most
women will benefit, and the results can be long
lasting. If you do Kegels routinely, you'll likely see improvement within two
months. If you don't experience improvement, talk with your doctor.
� Absorbent pads and adult diapers
Most of these products are no bulkier than
normal underwear and can be worn under everyday clothing. But don't resort to
using diapers without asking your doctor about all your treatment options.
� Other procedures
Ask your doctor about other options, such as
injected bulking agents and other minimally invasive surgical procedures.
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