Healthy bladder and bowel habits can help you avoid bladder and bowel control problems such as incontinence. Incontinence can have a major impact on your quality of life. If you or someone you know is affected by incontinence, it is important to remember that:

 

• You are not alone - it is estimated that 6 million people in the UK are affected by incontinence
• It affects both men and women, regardless of your age or background
• It can be treated, managed and in many cases cured, and
• There are many avenues of help available.

 

Many women experience bladder weakness during menopause. There are signs that the hormonal changes – a reduced level of oestrogen in particular – affect the abdominal muscles and can cause the bladder to change position, with urine leakage as a result. Below are some tips to imrpove your bladder health

 

• Oestrogen treatment in the form of creams and vaginal suppositories can help manage your symptoms during menopause. Ask your GP what treatment is best for you.
• Add some Kegel exercises to your daily routine. A few minutes of pelvic floor training every day can reduce the risk of leaks or even make them go away.
• Drinking water is the best fluid for your bladder.
• Before you lift anything, remember to tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold them tight until you have lowered the load.

New animation on Pelvic Floor Exercises

A brand-new animation on pelvic floor muscle exercises for women is now live on NHS Inform Women’s Health Platform. The film provides practical advice on how to exercise pelvic floor muscles and explains in more depth why this is so important for women.

 

For more information on bladder health, please visit:

https://www.nhsgrampian.org/your-health/healthy-living/bladder-and-bowel/ 

Published: 25/03/2025 15:23