We lift the taboo of incontinence and we dare to talk about it! We answer all your questions below 👇
We start with the basics: What is incontinence?
We speak of incontinence to designate the loss of control of urinary functions , which is also called in more common language, urinary leakage . This dysfunction can affect all individuals and leaks can occur day or night. They affect around 2.6 million people over 65 but can affect younger people just as much. The leaks are uncontrolled and can be more or less severe, which on a daily basis can be a real burden for the people who suffer from them. Indeed, a person suffering from incontinence may tend to isolate themselves and reduce their social activities for fear of “accidents”. Sleep can also be very disrupted, which can lead to significant fatigue.
There are several forms of incontinence:
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Stress urinary incontinence, i.e. 40% of cases:
It is characterized by involuntary leaking of urine without first having the urge to urinate. It is often caused by more or less intense effort such as jumping, weight training and any other abdominal pressure such as coughing or laughing.
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Urinary incontinence due to overactive bladder, i.e. 10% of cases:
This type of urinary leakage is preceded by an urgent and uncontrollable need to urinate, it can occur at any time and is particularly stressful for the person suffering from it.
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Mixed incontinence represents 50% of cases.
It brings together the two other types of incontinence.
But why do we suffer from incontinence and what are the factors that contribute to urinary incontinence? đź‘€
Generally …
Urinary leakage can be observed particularly during pregnancy and most often disappears spontaneously after childbirth. They can also be contracted after menopause and as an individual ages.
However, the state of health accentuates the risks…
Certain health conditions increase the risk of urinary leakage such as being overweight or obese, chronic constipation, chronic cough and taking certain medications such as sedatives or diuretics).
Lifestyle also impacts…
In daily life, urinary leakage can be caused by overconsumption of alcohol, tobacco or caffeine or by intensive physical activity causing repeated pressure on the perineum (marathon, bodybuilding, trampoline, skipping rope, etc.) .
Which doctor should you consult when you suffer from incontinence?
The pharmacist: easy local access
If your incontinence problem is only occasional, the pharmacist will not be able to give you specific advice on products because he/she is well aware of the diversity of existing products on the market. In addition, the pharmacy is an easily accessible local point that can direct you to a doctor if the problems are more disabling and require more care.
Your attending physician: the main contact
A treating doctor generally knows his patients very well and is the main healthcare professional to contact with any questions about your health. Dialogue with your doctor will allow you to better understand the causes of urinary leakage and to offer treatment adapted to your needs.
The urologist: The incontinence specialist
The urologist will be the main specialist to consult in the event of an incontinence problem. His training allows him to care for patients of all ages, seniors, adults and children. She/he will be able to have you undergo any additional examinations in order to find the most suitable solution for you!
The gynecologist: to give pregnant women confidence
Women are often affected by incontinence during pregnancy and for some it continues after childbirth. Your gynecologist can therefore advise you and direct you towards the best solutions to help you manage this problem!
How to cure incontinence?
First of all, we can never tell you enough but talking to a health professional will allow you to establish a dialogue and understand your problem in detail in order to find a suitable medical solution 🙌
There are still factors that aggravate incontinence which can be avoided:
- Fight against obesity and overweight, which are factors that aggravate urinary leakage
- Stop smoking 🚬
- Avoid irritating drinks and foods such as coffee, alcohol, acidic or spicy dishes 🌶
As we know that these factors are not always possible to reduce, we still share our little natural tips with you to make your life easier!
Be careful if you are pregnant, consult your doctor before consuming any of these products.
What plants are recommended to relieve urinary leakage?
As with many problems, plants are also our best ally when it comes to urinary leakage. Here are some plants that can help improve your daily life🌿
- Cypress nut is an astringent (which tightens tissues) and a venous vasoconstrictor (tightening of blood vessels) which helps limit symptoms. A herbal tea with 15-25 grams of cypress nuts, before each meal, may be recommended.
- Horsetail strengthens the internal tissues of the bladder and thus improves its functioning. This plant can also be consumed in the form of herbal tea. To do this, add half a cup or 4 teaspoons of horsetail to hot water.
- Cinnamon is an ally against urinary incontinence, more particularly against leaks occurring at night. As a herbal tea, add three cinnamon sticks to two cups of water. It is also possible to chew a cinnamon stick.
What are alternative methods to reduce incontinence?
There are also alternative methods to reduce the symptoms of incontinence, always good to take, we list some of them below?
- Exercises (or even rehabilitation) to strengthen the perineum. To do this, you can consult your physiotherapist or midwife who will be able to help you and inform you if there is a need for rehabilitation or exercise.
- For women, perineal rehabilitation balls or “geisha balls” are ideal for strengthening the perineum. Introduced into the vagina, geisha balls help tone the perineum during movements, such as walking. A gentle effectiveness that allows you to re-muscle your perineum little by little. They can be used every day for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Behavioral therapy allows you to reprogram your body to learn to manage emergencies and space out pressing desires.
Now that you have all the necessary information on incontinence, we suggest you take a little tour? here to find the right products that will allow you to continue to enjoy life with a lighter mind!
Find our range of absorbent underwear to continue enjoying the good moments of life ✨