- Stress Incontinence – This is the involuntary loss of urine when the abdomen is under stress. For example, when coughing or laughing, there is an involuntary loss of urine.
- Urge Incontinence – This is typically experienced as a sudden strong need to urinate. For example, feeling a strong urge to get to the bathroom and experiencing a loss of urine before reaching the toilet.
- Overflow Incontinence – This occurs when the bladder does not empty completely and causes urine to leak out.
- Reflex Incontinence – This is the loss of urine without any awareness.
- Mixed Incontinence – This is the combination of urge and stress incontinence.
Healthy Bladder Tips
- Limit alcohol intake
- Limit tobacco intake
- Maintain normal weight
- Maintain good fluid intake (8—10 glasses daily)
- Limit foods high in acid content (i.e.... Tomatoes)
- Exercise on a regular basis
- Practice pelvic floor exercises regularly (Kegel exercises)
- Practice bladder retraining
- Limit caffeine intake
Common Myths About Incontinence
Myth: Losing bladder function is just part of getting older.
Fact: Incontinence is not a part of aging. If you need help getting started in promoting a health bladder, ask you health care professional.
Myth: Decreasing fluid intake will decrease the degree of incontinence.
Fact: Decreased fluid intake irritates the bladder. This promotes an increased need to urinate and may promote urinary tract infections.
Myth: Practicing healthy tips for bladder control does not work.
Fact: The healthy tips are effective. If you have trouble, please make an appointment with a Nurse Continence Advisor or a family physician for further assessment.