3 COMMON BLADDER WEAKNESS MYTHS: DE-BUNKED!
Incontinence affects over 5 million Australians, so we think it’s important to make the differentiation between true and false information.
Let's debunk the three most common myths about incontinence.
Myth #1: Drinking Less 🚰
There is a common thought where ‘if I drink less, surely that means I won’t need to use the bathroom as often’. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
Limiting your fluid intake without having healthcare professionals' advice can actually lead to an increase in management issues. If we don’t consume enough fluid, we are at risk of being de-hydrated, which results in a higher concentration of urine that causes bladder irritation and an increase of incontinence episodes.
Here are a couple ways to control your water intake without risking other health problems.
Minimize intake of liquid 2-3 hours before bed. 🌙
This way, you have a higher chance to fully empty your bladder before you go to sleep and lessen the bathroom trips over the course of the night.
If you want to consume fluids, take small sips as opposed to big gulps. 🥤
This allows your body to absorb the liquid instead of needing to excrete the liquid due to the large volume you drank.
Myth #2: Pelvic floor exercises don’t work 💪
Pelvic floor exercises are actually one of the best tools at your disposal. It's a clinically proven, non-invasive treatment that leads to HUGE improvement in continence for both men and women.
The Continence Foundation of Australia has incredible resources for you to use where you can learn more about pelvic floor exercises, continence management and treatments. You can also call ☎️ 1800-33-00-66 to speak directly to a continence nurse specialist.
Myth #3: Simple lifestyle changes aren’t enough to help with incontinence
Lifestyle choices are often overlooked when it comes to diagnosing incontinence. Studies have shown that weight loss based on behavioral or lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet 🥗, regular exercise 🏋️♀️ and high quality sleep 💤 alleviate symptoms. It also helps support greater long term well-being and longevity.
Some lifestyle changes you can make to daily life can include:
Pelvic floor training 🏋️♂️
Head to the Continence Foundation of Australia website to learn more about exercise selection as well as overall function of the pelvic floor.
Staying hydrated 💧
Drinking 10-12 glasses of water per day will not only keep you hydrated, but helps maintain healthy energy levels, cognition and focus.
Exercise 🏃♀️
You don't have to be a gym goer if that's not your speed. Moving your body for 1 hour per day means your doing yourself a massive favor. The simple act of walking improves blood flow, helps with digestion and improves cardiovascular function.
Take your time ⏳
Ensuring you give yourself adequate time on the toilet is important. 2 in 3 women don't entirely empty their bladder, so when you think you've finished urinating, stand up for 10-20 seconds and sit back down. You might be surprised with how much more comes out.
Can products make incontinence more manageable?
We understand comfort is paramount when it comes to incontinence management products. That's why we designed 'Comforts', with comfort and convenience in mind. 💖
Our pads and liners are made from 100% natural cotton 🌿, contains ❌ scents, ❌ chlorine bleach, and ❌ synthetic materials, whilst also being highly absorbent and hypo-allergenic, making them reliable and kind to your skin.
We are passionate about our mission to support women naturally in every stage of life and are confident that 'Comforts' incontinence pads will help you have a more comfortable stress free life. 🌈