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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staffTreatments today for stress incontinence can substantially reduce, if not eliminate, urinary leakage and help you regain control of your bladder. Still, you may need to cope with the effects of incontinence while waiting for surgery or for medication or behavior therapies to gain effectiveness.
Going out and about
Maintaining your connection with family, friends and colleagues can prevent feelings of isolation and depression that can accompany incontinence. Being prepared may help you feel more comfortable when you're out and about:
- Stock up on supplies. Take along sufficient incontinence pads or protective undergarments and possibly a change of clothes. Incontinence products are discreet and often can be stowed in a roomy purse or a small backpack.
- Scout out your destination. Familiarize yourself with the restrooms available at your destination. Choose seating that allows easy access to restrooms.
- Take good care of yourself. Prolonged contact with wet clothing can cause skin irritation or sores. Keep your skin as dry as possible to prevent this.
Sexuality and incontinence
Leaking urine during sexual intercourse can be upsetting, but it doesn't necessarily have to get in the way of intimacy:
- Talk with your partner. As difficult as this may be initially, be up front with your partner about your condition. You may be surprised at how understanding and willing to accommodate your needs your partner can be.
- Empty your bladder beforehand. To reduce your chances of leakage, avoid drinking fluids for an hour or so before sex and empty your bladder immediately before starting.
- Try a different position. Altering positions may make intercourse easier for you. For women, being on top generally gives you better control of your pelvic muscles.
- Do your Kegels. Pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises) can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and reduce urine leakage.
- Be prepared. Having towels handy or using disposable pads on your bed may help ease some of your anxiety if you're worried about leakage.
Seeking help
Being incontinent is not a normal part of aging and not something that you just have to learn to live with. Treatments are available to cure incontinence or significantly reduce its effects on your life. The first step is finding a doctor who's interested in your condition and willing to work with you to find the best way to treat your incontinence.
You might also consider joining a support group. Organizations such as the National Association for Continence (NAFC) can provide you with resources and information about people who experience stress incontinence. Support groups offer a venue for voicing concerns and often provide motivation to maintain self-care strategies.
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- Wolter CE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 6, 2008.
