A Common Problem That Nobody Wants To Talk About
Problem Affecting One in Three Women
There are 4.2 million Australians living with urinary incontinence, or about 1 in 3 women according to a 2010 report.
The general term, urinary incontinence, is used to describe poor bladder control or involuntary leakage of urine - which is a common and often embarrassing problem.
Severity can range from a small leak to a complete loss of bladder control. Common triggers are coughing and sneezing that usually affects women after giving birth.
Over 50 Women Are Usual Sufferers
Of those affected, more than half are over the age of 50 and above, and 80% of sufferers are women. But while over 50 women are most likely to be affected, childless young women are not in the clear. A 2011 Monash University study found that 1 in 8 women between the age of 16 and 30 have had some leakage and all of them have never given birth yet.
Don't be Embarrassed
An Australian health survey showed shocking new findings that 8 in 10 women affected don't seek help, with a 72% just laughing off the issue completely.
The condition may gradually develop and worsen causing not just a physical problem but heightened anxiety. Don’t just shrug it off!
Unsure what to do?
While simple squeeze exercises can help some patients some of the time, expert advice and gaining a full understanding of your options is probably the best course.
If you are experiencing incontinence, you would be advised to seek a referral from your GP and arrange a time to see Dr Gailani at omargailani.com.au
