Common Myths about Incontinence

With urinary incontinence affecting more than 25 million people in the United States, according to the National Association for Continence, it’s no wonder that there are more and more people coming forward about their incontinence concerns and requests for solutions. In fact, adult diapers now actually outsell diapers for newborn and toddlers! Here, we seek to educate more people about the issue of incontinence and bust some myths that exist around the topic.

MYTH: Incontinence has similar symptoms across the board.

FACT:  Every person dealing with incontinence is affected differently. While leaking overall may be the common denominator, everything from how much, how often and even underlying causes can differ.  There are also several different types of incontinence, including stress, urge, and others.

MYTH: Incontinence affects the elderly, almost always.

FACT: Urinary incontinence is a common problem among many different generations and even with both genders.  Young women can experience incontinence despite being very healthy all due to pressure on the pelvic area.  The same is true for those who are pregnant and carrying much more pressure on their genital area.  Women who are older can have optimal pelvic health and strength and not necessarily be subject to incontinence. No matter the age, much can be done to minimize or even prevent incontinence altogether.

MYTH: Incontinence is inconvenient but nothing to worry about.

FACT:  Urinary incontinence has more than just social consequences. It can also be a clear sign of an underlying medical condition.  Women with incontinence can struggle greatly in the workplace as they are subject to possible and untimely leaks, prompting a change in their attire or schedule.  While these may seem like just a nuisance, they also can be a sign of some underlying issues that are much more concerning. For instance, incontinence can be a symptom of cancer of the pelvic region, dementia, Alzheimer’s, kidney stones or other issues.

MYTH: Medications are ideal for treatment of incontinence.

FACT: Certainly, medications and prescriptions can help to treat overactive bladder or urge incontinence however, they are more so temporary and a band-aid for the overall condition.  May people can actually help alleviate these side effects by creating a schedule for relieving themselves, using pelvic exercises to strengthen muscles in the bladder and decreasing excessive fluids (particularly diuretics like caffeinated beverages) throughout the day.  Talking with your healthcare provider can provide more options that are both supplemental and complementary to medications.

Incontinence affects many people, however, while the overall symptom of a leaking bladder common, the reasons behind such and the remedies to help curb it can vary greatly between people and predicaments. Extend grace to yourself or those you know living with incontinence and find daily support with Apele everyday undies.