Stop your BLADDER holding YOU BACK

Worried about wee? Up to 14 million people in the UK are affected by urinary issues, but we're here to help

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Midlife women often joke about letting 'a bit of wee out' when they do anything too physical, such as bouncing on a trampoline or carrying heavy shopping. Even a sneeze or a laugh could be high-risk at times. Bladder complaints such as incontinence, the urge to go and nocturia (weeing in the night), can become more common as we get older - yet many women feel too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it. Four out of five people in the UK who experience bladder problems don't talk about them with their doctor, while 66%* won't even tell friends or family.

The truth is, life is too short to put up with it any longer. Here's how to sort your bladder issues for good.

LITTLE LEAKS, BIG PROBLEM

Leaking during exercise or when you cough or laugh can be frustrating, debilitating and embarrassing. ‘It’s a huge problem for many women,’ says consultant gynaecologist Mr Vivek Nama. ‘The impact shouldn't be underestimated — it can limit travel choices and freedom, as well as confidence, sexual intimacy and sexual pleasure.’

There are several reasons why incontinence occurs —and different types. ‘Stress incontinence — this is when urine leaks when your bladder is under pressure — is usually caused by the weakening or damage to the pelvic floor muscles or the urethral sphincter,’ explains Mr Nama. ‘Urge incontinence — a sudden, intense need to pass urine and not being able to hold it—can be caused by a number of things, such as a bladder infection, inflammation, diseases or injury.’

Don't go it alone