Urinary incontinence can be very unsettling especially at the workplace where you have schedules like staff meetings, client meetings, business lunches on an almost daily basis. Getting up frequently from your work station can be a nightmare especially if you have a boss who is not understanding. However the problem can be taken care of with some strategic planning and the right incontinence armoury.
Here are some tips for you to handle incontinence at the workplace:
1. Good-quality absorbent pads: These are a must. These are slightly different from the normal menstrual pads and they have a powder that turns into a gel when they come into contact with fluid. They can also retain larger volumes of fluid. This is a must when you have to go to a long meeting.
2. Odor preventers: Many incontinence products contain capsules that disintegrate when they come in contact with fluid and they release a pleasant odor. Odor preventer sprays also do the same job.
3. Tampons: If you have stress incontinence then the best thing you can use is a tampon as it applies pressure on the urethra and prevents leaks.
4. Avoid caffeine and excess drinking water: Caffeine is a powerful diuretic and in a meeting coffee is served by the pots. If you drink two or three cups in a short span then the bladder will fill up and you will have leaks when you stand up. Avoid caffeine and also stay clear from drinking excess water. Instead try sips of water to keep your tongue and lips moist.
5. Kegels: These are a woman's best friend especially if she has incontinence. To do Kegels, contract the muscles that you would use to stop the flow of urine. Hold the contraction for three seconds and then relax. Do this eight to 10 times, at least three times a week. Keep doing this even in meetings, no one will know what you are up to!
6. Black skirts or trousers: Black hides almost everything and black colored clothing is absolutely good for meetings! Little stains will not be seen through black colored clothing. If possible keep a spare set of similar clothes.
7. Let the clock dictate terms and not your bladder: Train your bladder by practice. At first take a bathroom break every two hours and then gradually lengthen the interval between bathroom visits and this works perfect.
8. Consider a pessary: Pessaries are ring like constricting bands that clamp down on the urethra. Your doctor can fit you with the correct size.
9. Breathe deeply: Deep breathing is a form of relaxation exercise. Whenever the urge comes take a deep breathe and do not let go till the urge passes off.
10. Bracing: When a bout of laughter or cough starts remember to tighten your pelvic muscles. This helps prevent leaks.
11. Medications: If you have been prescribed a medication (prescription or natural) remember to take it regularly and do not miss doses.
Follow these tips and have an absolutely SUNNY day at work!
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