You might think incontinence is something that only old ladies have to deal with.
But it’s actually a condition that affects women, young and old, for a variety of reasons.
The NHS estimates that up to 9 million people in the UK may suffer from some form of urinary incontinence, with 1 in 3 women over the age of 35 experience bladder weakness at some point in their lives – making it more common than hay fever!
However, many women keep it a secret for years before asking for help – letting the condition hold them back from doing the things they love. A staggering 35% of females have avoided a situation that makes them laugh because of bladder weakness.
That’s why Boots Staydry – who have been caring for those experiencing bladder weakness since 2002 – are on a mission to break the taboo and to help anyone who may be suffering in silence.
Below we’ve teamed up with the Boots Staydry experts to coincide with their exciting relaunch to dispel some of the myths surrounding the issue to help put women’s minds at ease.
Staydry’s absorption is as good as the leading brand thanks to its unique technology which locks in odour and prevents leaks – making Staydry’s wide range of dermatologically tested products the No 1 selling incontinence brand in Boots.
Below we’ve listed the three main reasons you might be suffering from a weak bladder…
1. Stress incontinence
This is the most common type of incontinence in women, often brought on my pregnancy and the menopause. Sixty per cent of women experience bladder weakness either during or after pregnancy.
It can be caused by weak pelvic floor muscles, resulting in small leakages when your bladder is under pressure – for example, when coughing, sneezing, laughing or during exercise.
2. Urge incontinence
Also known as overactive bladder, this type of incontinence is caused by the bladder muscles contracting too often.
Leakages occur alongside a sudden, intense, uncontrollable urge to pass urine.
This can be made worse by drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, not drinking enough of other fluids, or because of urinary tract infections.
3. Overflow incontinence
Also known as chronic urinary retention.
Here, the bladder doesn’t completely empty when passing urine.
In women it can be caused by an obstruction of the bladder, such as urinary stones.
If you have overflow incontinence, you may pass small trickles of urine very often.
It may also feel as though your bladder is never fully empty.
- For more information on living with incontinence, and to view the full Staydry range, visit boots.com/staydry – or for free advice, call the Boots Staydry careline on 0800 072 3899.
Please do remember that incontinence can be a symptom of underlying medical condition and if you have any concerns about any type of incontinence or your symptoms, you should speak to your GP.