Introduction
The information on this site is provided to help you start to understand bladder control. Understanding this information does not replace seeing your doctor, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant for an evaluation; rather, it helps you to take an active part in your care. Bladder control or urinary incontinence is a symptom and should be diagnosed. There can be many different reasons for bladder control problems. By discussing it with your health care provider you will find out the causes and actions that can be done to improve your condition or help you achieve control.
It is important to remember that everyone is born incontinent! The body systems for our bladder and bowel are very complex and we need to learn the right time and place to go the bathroom as well as “how” to wait. Learning to control our bladder and bowel occurs at about 2 to 3 years of age; nighttime control is usually gained by age 6
Bladder and bowel control problems occur in about 16–25 million people in the U.S. The number is probably higher. Many people don’t tell their doctor and their doctors don’t ask. Women may wait up to 9 years before seeking help! The costs of just bladder control problems range from $16 to $30 billion a year. Incontinence is one of the three leading causes for nursing home admissions.
There are many myths about bladder control problems.
Myth: Incontinence is a normal part of aging.
Urinary incontinence can occur at any age. It is true that it happens more often as we get older. Things change in our bodies as we get older that may lead to bladder control problems. Incontinence is NOT caused by aging. Not all older people have bladder control problems. In fact there are children and young female athletes who have bladder control problems.
Myth: Incontinence is a natural result of pregnancy and childbearing.
Pregnancy and childbirth can affect the pelvic muscles that support the bladder. The weight gain that happens when pregnant causes increased pressure on the pelvic muscles. During delivery the cutting or tearing of the pelvic muscles may affect both bladder and bowel control. Having babies may contribute to bladder and bowel control problems. It doesn’t mean that you will become incontinent.
Myth: If I don’t drink fluids, I won’t leak.
By not drinking fluids, the urine will become concentrated. This concentrated urine becomes a bladder irritant and can lead to leakage.
Myth: Incontinence can’t be treated.
Incontinence can be treated. There are many options. In most cases significant improvement or total control can be achieved. Incontinence is a symptom and needs to be evaluated by a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistance.
