Treatment options

It’s important for people who experience bladder weakness to visit their GP so that they can discuss their symptoms and possible causes. This will enable the GP to diagnose the type of bladder weakness the person has and suggest possible treatment options.

Treatment will depend on the type of bladder weakness and what is causing it, and while the management options listed below may help the majority of people, surgery or medication may be required in some cases.

1. Bladder weakness management products

Using the right bladder weakness management products can have a hugely beneficial impact on a person’s self esteem and their ability to carry on with their normal daily activities. Specially designed liners, pads and pants are available for men and women from brands including TENA, Always Discreet and Depend.

It is important that the customer chooses the right type of product for their needs. It may be useful to have samples available in the consultation room to show them, as well as point of sale materials displayed clearly beside the in-store fixture. Looking at the manufacturers’ websites can help in familiarising yourself with their products so that you know which types are best for the different types of bladder weakness.

2. Pelvic floor (kegel) exercises

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles helps to support the bladder and provides control. These muscles can be felt when stopping the flow of urine when going to the toilet. Although it’s not a good idea to do this regularly, it can help a person to understand where these muscles are in their body.

To exercise these muscles, customers should practise squeezing them 10-15 times in a row. This should be done without holding the breath or using other muscles in the stomach, buttocks, etc. The number of squeezes and the length of time they are held for should be gradually increased. When performed regularly over three to six months, these exercises should have a beneficial effect on stress incontinence.

3. Symptom diary

Keeping a diary of symptoms can be useful. Customers should record what they drink, when they go to the toilet, and any episodes of urine leakage. They can then share this information with their GP.

4. Alternative therapies

Pumpkin seed extract has been used as a traditional remedy to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms related to an overactive bladder, while saw palmetto has a history of use as a traditional remedy for urinary symptoms related to an enlarged prostate. It is also thought that cranberries may be useful in preventing urinary tract infections. These are all exclusively based upon long-standing use as traditional remedies.