What are the Myths and Facts about Urinary Incontinence?
Separate the Myths and Facts concerning Urinary Incontinence
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Being diagnosed with Urinary Incontinence can be very nerve-racking. You may not even be diagnosed yet, but suspect you have this condition due to alarming symptoms. In any case, there are a lot of myths floating around about Urinary Incontinence, so before you get too alarmed, learn the facts.
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Myth: Urinary Incontinence is only for elderly people, especially older women.
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Fact: Our bodies change as we age, but Urinary Incontinence is not an inevitable part of getting older. One in four women over the age of 18 leak urine involuntarily, and one third of adults from ages 30 to 70 have experienced issues with bladder control. Although older women tend to experience Urinary Incontinence during menopause due to a decrease in estrogen, older women are not destined to have leakage.
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Myth: Pregnancy-induced Urinary Incontinence is permanent.
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Fact: About 45% of women who experience Urinary Incontinence during pregnancy have reported its disappearance up to sixth months after childbirth. While vaginal birth can predispose women to Urinary Incontinence later in life, this is not always the case.
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Myth: Men will have lasting Urinary Incontinence after Prostate Surgery.
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Fact: While some men experience Urinary Incontinence after prostate surgery, it is mostly temporary. In time, many men will have full control over the bladder once again. Urinary Incontinence after prostate surgery is more common in men who were incontinent post-op or have diseases/conditions relating to incontinence.
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Myth: Kegel Exercises Do Not Work.
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Fact: The majority men and women who practice Kegel exercises have found a decrease in their Urinary Incontinence symptoms. Harvard Medical School and Mayo Clinic Health found that in some cases Urinary Incontinence is eliminated entirely. Practicing Kegels on a regular basis can make a difference, as long as you stick to an exercise plan.
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Myth: Urinary Incontinence is Not Treatable.
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Fact: Urinary Incontinence can be successfully treated in many different ways. With proper evaluation and treatment, Urinary Incontinence can be radically improved and even eliminated. Talk to your physician about your specific condition, and you will receive an abundance of information regarding treatment. Try not to self-diagnose because you could be incorrect in your assessment and it will take longer for you to learn how to maintain your incontinence.
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Myth: Surgery is the only treatment for Urinary Incontinence.
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Fact: While surgery is a treatment often used in cases of Stress Urinary Incontinence, it is not the only treatment. After determining the cause of your Urinary Incontinence, your course of treatment can be as simple as diet change. No matter how old you are, there will always be some form of treatment. Behavioral or lifestyle modifications, exercises, medications and other new technologies are all appropriate forms of treatment other than surgery. Treatment could be as easy as wearing an absorbent protective diaper, designed to maintain many levels of Urinary Incontinence.
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Myth: Drinking less liquid will cure Urinary Incontinence.
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Fact: Limiting your liquid intake can lead to more concentrated urine, which can irritate your bladder and heighten your Urinary Incontinence. Sipping small amounts of fluid throughout the day will help you control your bladder and reduce odor. Caffeine, soda and highly acidic juices can irritate the bladder, so try and avoid these as best you can. If you don’t drink before bed in fear of wetting the mattress, just take a small swig and put an incontinence absorbing underpad on top of your mattress. There’s always a solution to liquid intake concerns, it’s important to stay hydrated.
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Myth: Enjoyable Sex is impossible with Urinary Incontinence.
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Fact: While Urinary Incontinence may cause inhibition, studies have shown that both men and women enjoy sex just as much as those without incontinence. Not only is it just as enjoyable, adults with UI report the same amount of sexual activity as those without incontinence. With limited fluid intake prior to sex, wisely chosen sexual positions, regularly performed Kegels, and an understanding partner, it is very possible have enjoyable sex.
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Myth: Wearing a sanitary napkin is the best solution to maintain daily leakage.
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Fact: Sanitary napkins do not have the proper polymers to absorb urine. Adult Incontinence pads are designed to hold urine and prevent irritation. Using Incontinence pads and liners are the healthiest option to maintain light daily leakage. Tena Incontinence Liners are popular option to use for this purpose.
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Separating Myth from Fact is very important when it pertains to your health. Ask your doctor every question on your mind regarding your Urinary Incontinence, and get the information you need. This will alleviate stress and on put you on the path to proper treatment and a happier lifestyle.