Only stars like Chrissy Tiegen, Kate Winslet or Kris Jenner can make incontinence a sexy topic.
Forty-nine percent cent of all women deal with urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. More common in aging women, there are newer technologies that can address this issue without invasive surgical procedures. Yet, many women suffer in silence, not comfortable enough to raise the issue with their health professional. Physicians seriously need to add this question to the mature woman’s annual check-up.
A friend of mine shared her life was transformed once she underwent an easy outpatient procedure. It revived impromptu sex and boosted her self confidence. Previously, she was constantly worried about the odor, sometimes showering two or three times a day.
Causes of Incontinence
Some common causes are:
- Certain medications
- An overactive bladder
- Weak pelvic floor muscles
- Surgery side effects
- Excess weight
- Chronic illness
The most common bladder control problem in middle age is stress incontinence. That is when coughing, sneezing or laughing causes the muscles to relax involuntarily.
Urge incontinence is the second. This is when there is little notice before you need to relieve yourself, not leaving you with enough time to get to the washroom. Often, this is a result of a chronic illness such as a stroke or diabetes.
Potential Solutions For Getting Your Sexy Back
There is a wide range of options available ranging from exercises (remember those Kegels) and medication to tampon-like inserts and surgical procedures. The newer techniques are the exciting ones though, including nerve stimulation and the use of radio-frequency energy to tighten the tissue of the bladder.
Are You Using Incontinence Pads and Underwear?
Advertising including on television makes incontinence pads and underwear mainstream but there are some uncomfortable side effects. Using them daily can cause chafing, itchiness, and burning.
Typically, this is caused by the type of pads you are using or not changing them often enough. My gynecologist recommended using 100 percent cotton pads like these, available on Amazon or at your local drugstore. If you are concerned about the fact that plastic-wrapped pads take hundreds of years to decompose, consider these reusable cotton pads that can be thrown in your laundry bag.
You deserve to feel sexy again. Talk to your health provider and explore what approach suits you best.
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