Practical Advice

A new study from the Harvard Medical School in Boston suggests that incontinence may raise the risk of depression in older women. The study was published in the April issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

The study included 4,511 women who were enrolled in the population-based Health and Retirement Study cohort.

When most people think of adult diapers, they tend to think of the elderly. Old people lose control over their bladders all the time and adult diapers are there to help. Surely someone young, say in their 30’s, would never need to wear diapers. Why would they need to? Their bodies are healthy; their bladders are strong. Adult diapers won’t be a necessity until you’re at least 80. Right?

When you’re first choosing incontinence products, you’re typically presented the options of disposable and reusable. Disposable briefs are ideal for those with heavy incontinence. They’re usually more absorbent than reusable briefs, featuring thick polymers that wick urine away from the skin. Disposable briefs are available in two styles: adult diapers (also called adult briefs) or adult pull ups (also called protective underwear).

An overactive bladder (OAB) can cause great disruptions in one’s life. People with OAB experience frequent and sudden bladder spasms, and sometimes can’t even make it to the bathroom in time (urge incontinence). Overactive bladder can affect one’s work, relationships, social life and self-esteem. Fortunately there are many ways to treat the condition.

For women who are new to wearing incontinence products, the selection process can be a bit overwhelming due to the vast options available. The main things to remember when choosing incontinence products are to pick the right size and absorbency level. This will also play a role in how comfortable the undergarment will be. Read below to get familiar with the different types of incontinence products for women.

“I currently sleep on top of waterproof bed pads to keep my mattress dry at night. However, I move around a lot and the pad does not stay put. My bed ends up getting wet. What options do I have?”

Urinary incontinence affects more than 25 million men and women in the United States. Men are less likely to be diagnosed than women because they are often reluctant to talk about the problem with their doctor.

While incontinence affects elderly men more than younger men, the condition should not be considered as a normal sign of aging.

Urinary incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors including weak pelvic floor muscles, spinal cord injury and prostate problems. What you eat and drink can also play a role in accidental leakage. Here are three tips on how you can manage your diet to improve your bladder control problems.

“I’m experiencing some light bladder leakage. I was told to use incontinence pads but I’ve never used one before and don’t know how to choose one. What features should I be looking for when choosing an incontinence pad?”

Mattress protection is critical when dealing with adult bedwetting. Disposable products, such as adult briefs and protective underwear, may help protect the mattress, but accidents can happen. If you or your loved one experiences enuresis at night, there are various waterproof pads that can be used to keep the mattress dry and clean.

Twenty-fourteen is finally here! Every year, people make New Year’s resolutions to better themselves or some aspect of their life. This year, we encourage you to make goals to improve your bladder habits, and ultimately gain control over your leaky bladder.