How to Cure Urinary Incontinence Naturally with These Unexpected Remedies

Natural Remedies to Slay Incontinence

Pee-nomenal!

46% of us ladies aged 45 to 80 reportedly had a little whoopsie-daisy, a.k.a. urinary incontinence, within the last year. But hey, we're not alone, even though it feels like a secret society. Incontinence can sneak up on anyone, at any age, but usually crashes the party post-childbirth. And it doesn't just RSVP to older women's invitations!

Unwanted leaks and accidents have us all whispering in hushed tones, living under this weird misconception that it's a rite of passage in our golden years. We're worried about it getting worse—49% of us are—but many of us aren't chatting up our doctors about it. Guess what? We don't have to suffer in silence.

When it comes to dealing with something as personal as incontinence, I'm a firm believer in exploring all the natural options first before going the way of the scalpel or the pill bottle. Why? Because I have a deep-rooted faith in the body's ability to heal and strengthen itself, given the right care and nourishment.

The pelvic floor isn't just any ol' muscle group, it's our personal frontline against leaky situations. So, in the spirit of strengthening and supporting our body's unsung heroes, I'm all for giving Mother Nature's remedies a chance to do their magic.

From herbs to exercises, let's explore how we can empower our bodies to tackle urinary incontinence naturally.

But hey, remember, if we do end up needing some medical intervention down the line, there's no shame in that game either. It's all about doing what's best for you, on your own terms.

What happens if urinary incontinence is not treated?

Let's chat a moment about what happens when urinary incontinence, that not-so-fun game of 'will I or won't I make it to the bathroom', isn't treated. It's like refusing to fix that weird leak in your roof – sure, it's a nuisance now, but leave it long enough and your entire living room will be a puddle!

So, not treating urinary incontinence? Let's paint a picture. Physically, your body could become a hotbed of unwanted activities. Think skin problems galore—rashes, infections, even sores because, let's face it, constant dampness down there? Not a skin care regimen recommended by any dermatologist. It's like living in a never-ending, super gross, wet t-shirt contest.

And the fun doesn't stop there! Leave urinary incontinence untreated and you're signing up for a potential urinary tract infection. Picture an all-inclusive vacation, but instead of sun and sand, it's bacteria partying it up in your bladder.

As for the emotional and social complications? They're the real kickers. We're talking self-esteem dipping lower than your favorite pair of low-rise jeans, isolation that makes a hermit look social, and anxiety that could put any caffeine buzz to shame. All because you're constantly worried about the next leak.

So, moral of the story? Don't ignore urinary incontinence. It's like ignoring a raccoon in your pantry—it won't end well! Get it treated, folks! Trust me, your body and your social life will thank you!

What Causes Urinary Incontinence in Adults?

There's a whole cocktail of factors that could make your bladder go rogue. Temporary insubordination might be due to a urinary tract infection or constipation—pesky, but treatable. Then there are the stubborn cases:

• Pregnancy and childbirth: Your body is a life-creating machine! But with it comes hormonal changes and pressure on your bladder leading to stress incontinence. Post-delivery, the party might keep going due to weakened muscles. Giving birth to 10 lbs babies...let's just say I am still recovering.
• Aging: Ah, the joys of growing older—muscles weaken, including those that hold your pee. Toss in involuntary bladder contractions and less estrogen post-menopause, which used to keep your bladder lining and urethra in check.
• Obstructions: Tumors, urinary stones, or other blockages could interfere with the golden flow, leading to leaks.
• Neurological disorders: Conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, brain tumor, spinal injury, or Parkinson’s disease can cause bladder trouble.

When Does the Urinary Incontinence Party Start?

Well, it's a free-for-all really, but typically the invitations start flying out around age 50+. Ladies, we win the popularity contest here thanks to our anatomical make-up and extra fun times like childbearing.

Is Urinary Incontinence a Normal Part of Aging for Women?

We've all heard the rumors that urinary incontinence is just a normal part of aging, right? Like getting wrinkles or not understanding TikTok. But let's get real. Although it might be common as we age, it's certainly not a "one-size-fits-all" deal and definitely NOT something you have to just "live with".

Yes, incontinence can occur more frequently as we get older due to the natural weakening of muscles and, you know, the whole childbirth gig. But, just because you're collecting a few more candles on your birthday cake, doesn't mean you have to start shopping for adult diapers.

Listen up, there's a world of treatments and strategies out there, from lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, to some fabulous nautral remedies. You know, stuff that'll help you laugh without fear and jump on trampolines again! So, no, urinary incontinence is NOT just an inevitable part of aging. Your golden years should be just that - golden, not damp!

What are the different types of urinary incontinence?

Just when you thought it couldn't get more exciting, there are several types of urinary incontinence: stress, urge, functional, overflow, and mixed incontinence.

• Stress incontinence: That little trickle when you cough, laugh, jump, or exercise.
• Overflow incontinence: Your bladder's like a party that never ends, causing regular leaks.
• Functional incontinence: An impairment, physical or mental, that stops you from getting to the bathroom on time.
• Urge incontinence: The sudden, intense, and uncontrollable urge to pee that hits like a freight train.
• Mixed incontinence: A combination of two or more types of the above.

Can you heal incontinence naturally?

Yes! You could go for medications, but why not start by giving natural remedies a shot first? Your body might just thank you for it!

1. Kegel exercises:  I had been practicing these exercises wrong for the majority of my life not realizing that the pelvic floor muscle extended from the front of pelvic bone all the way to the tail bone. TIP: When doing these exercises you need to activate the entire muscle, not just the area around your vagina. Try doing the elevator from front to back rather than just inside. This was a game changer for me. 
2. Bladder training: Train your bladder to be an obedient pet. When the urge hits, delay urination for 10 minutes. Slowly extend this until you're going 2.5 to 3.5 hours between bathroom breaks.
3. Biofeedback: Biofeedback therapy uses sensors and live feedback, via visual graphs or sounds, to show you what's happening in real-time with those sneaky muscles. These aren't muscles you normally think about, like your biceps or abs. They're more hidden and honestly, pretty shy. But through biofeedback, you get a backstage pass to their show. This insight can help you figure out how to control them better and tweak your pelvic floor exercises for maximum effect. So, think about it like you’re the personal trainer for your bladder. You're there to guide, support, and tell it, "you've got this, let's go another round!" It's a natural and non-invasive approach, so if you're willing to listen to what your body has to say, it could really work wonders!
4. Double Voiding: Pee, wait a few minutes, and try again. It’s like getting a second opinion.
5. Scheduled Toilet Trips: Regular potty breaks might help your bladder get with the program.
6. Fluid and Diet Management: Cut down on alcohol, caffeine, and acidic foods. Drink more water (see next question) and boost fiber intake to avoid constipation, a notorious accomplice of incontinence. 
7. Healthy Weight: Carrying extra pounds can stress your bladder. Lose the weight, and you might also lose the incontinence.
   
   

Does Drinking Water Help Incontinence?

The irony, right? You'd think adding more water to a flood wouldn't help, but staying hydrated is crucial for a healthy bladder. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which can irritate your bladder and cause you to pee more frequently. However, like everything else in life, moderation is key. No need to chug like you're in a college drinking game.

What vitamin helps with bladder control?

Well, Vitamin D is known to support bone health, and it’s a friend of the bladder too! A 2010 study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology suggested a link between vitamin D deficiency and pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence.

Can Ayurveda Naturally Cure Incontinence?

How about we take a detour from Hollywood and get a bit Bollywood? In Ayurveda, they say incontinence is all about an imbalance in the Vata dosha - that's the thing controlling your nervous system, movement, and elimination. So, here are some home remedies from the land of spices:

Triphala

This is a powerful combo of three fruits - Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. Think of them like a pop group, but instead of making hit songs, they help to regulate bowel movements and improve digestion. A spoon of Triphala powder mixed with warm water before bedtime could turn down the volume on your incontinence.

Ashwagandha

Sounds like a magic spell, right? Well, it's actually a chill-out herb that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, it's got a thing for your nervous system, so it might just help improve bladder control. Ashwagandha powder mixed with warm milk before bed could be your golden ticket to dreamland without any pee interruptions.

Gokshura

This Ayurvedic herb is like a personal trainer for your bladder, improving its function and cutting down on inflammation in the urinary tract. A sprinkle of Gokshura powder in warm water twice a day could put you on the path to saying goodbye to incontinence.

Sesame oil

Rub a dub dub, massage your belly with sesame oil before bedtime. It’s not just for stir-fries – it can also help strengthen your pelvic muscles and improve bladder control. You can even throw some sesame seeds into the mix with jaggery and snack on it throughout the day.

Amla

Got control issues with involuntary urination? Amla's got your back. Mix some amla juice with honey, and pair it with a ripe banana twice or thrice daily. It's like a tropical vacation for your bladder.

Tulsi

If you've got a bladder infection messing with your toilet routine, meet tulsi. Just crush 2-3 fresh tulsi leaves in the morning and pair it with a spoonful of honey. It's a little bit of sweetness to start your day off right.

Cumin

Swap your regular tea for some cumin tea. Boil 1 teaspoon of cumin in 2 cups of clean water until it's down to half, strain, and add a little honey. It's a unique blend that your bladder might just love. It might be a simple switch, but it could be just what you need to keep things under control.

Remember, these remedies might not be your miracle cure, but they might help. If you're unsure, talk to your healthcare provider about adding these into your routine.

Still Peeing Too Much?

If natural remedies don't seem to help, there are medications available, but these should be considered only after consulting with a healthcare provider. They may have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. But don’t worry, incontinence can usually be managed or even cured, with or without surgery, depending on the cause.

What Is the Best Medication for Urinary Incontinence?

Choosing the right medication for urinary incontinence is like picking the right wine. It's personal and depends on your body, taste, and tolerance. Some common ones include anticholinergics, mirabegron, and topical estrogen. Always consult with a healthcare professional because Dr. Google doesn't know your medical history.

Can incontinence be cured by surgery?

There are several surgical procedures available for the treatment of urinary incontinence, depending on the cause and type of the condition:

1. Sling procedures: These surgeries are often done to treat stress incontinence. In these procedures, a surgeon uses your own tissue, synthetic material (mesh), or tissue from a donor to create a sling or hammock that supports the urethra and keeps it closed, especially when you cough or sneeze, to prevent urine leakage.
2. Bladder neck suspension: This procedure is designed to provide support to the urethra and bladder neck—an area of thickened muscle where the bladder connects to the urethra. It involves an abdominal incision, so it's more invasive and has a longer recovery time than a sling procedure.
3. Prolapse surgery: In some cases, women may have urinary incontinence due to a prolapse of the pelvic organs, such as the bladder (cystocele), uterus, or rectum. In these cases, surgery may be done to correct the prolapse and this can help to improve incontinence.
4. Artificial urinary sphincter: This is a small, fluid-filled ring that's implanted around the bladder neck in men to treat stress incontinence caused by prostate surgery. The device keeps the urethra shut until you're ready to urinate.
5. Sacral nerve stimulator: This device is implanted under your skin and sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which are key to bladder function and bowel control. It's typically used for urge incontinence.
6. Injectable bulking agents: Although not a major surgery, bulking agents can be injected around the urethra to help keep it closed and reduce urine leakage. This treatment is typically used for stress incontinence.

As with any surgical procedure, these surgeries come with potential risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, difficulty urinating, or even worsening of incontinence. They're typically considered only after non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes have been tried without success.

The Long Pee Road Ahead

Incontinence isn't a life sentence, ladies. Whether it's caused by menopause, childbirth, or just the sands of time, there's no reason to let it stop you from living your life.

Until you have a handle on your incontinence, try our washable incontinence underwear, great for those light bladder leaks. 

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You can make lifestyle changes, try natural remedies, or seek medical treatments. Remember, incontinence is a condition, not a reflection of who you are. So let's get this party under control, shall we? Let's be bladder bosses, and show incontinence the door!