Health Tip: Coping With Urinary Incontinence
ByABC News
March 24, 2008, 2:47 AM
Mar. 23 -- (HealthDay News) - Urinary incontinence affects millions of women, commonly after childbirth.
The National Women's Health Information Center lists these non-surgical options to help control urinary incontinence:
- Perform Kegel exercises designed to make your pelvic muscles stronger.
- Set a schedule for emptying your bladder, instead of waiting until you have to go. Slowly increase the amount of time between trips to the bathroom.
- Maintain a healthy body weight, as excess weight can strain the bladder and surrounding muscles.
- Limit or avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.
- Biofeedback may help you learn to better control the bladder and surrounding muscles.
- Prescription medication may help control some types of incontinence. Talk with your doctor about whether medication may work for you.