Urinary incontinence is still a topic that we are talking about at all in my friend’s ear. Meanwhile, we cannot allow it to complicate our daily lives.
50% of postmenopausal women suffer from urinary incontinence. In the age range between 30 and 50, this applies to every fourth woman. So it is not a problem for a narrow group of the fair sex. The problem, although invisible, has a significant impact on everyday functioning – the work performed, the organization of the day, social life. It becomes especially troublesome in the summer. First of all: high temperature affects the rate of bacterial decomposition in the urine, which results in bad odors that appear quickly. Secondly: in summer we dress lighter, throw off our heavy, long clothes that hide the body in favor of more airy and more transparent ones. Third: summer is a time of greater activity. We work on the plot, ride a bike, and walk a lot in the fresh air. This is of course of great importance for the overall condition of our body, but it is, unfortunately, conducive to urinating.
Drying urine precipitates alkaline salts with a high degree of hygroscopicity, i.e. the ability to attract water. Since we sweat much more in summer, we bathe more often, so the humidity in the intimate areas is increased. Water, urine, high temperature – these factors make the bacteria in the urine break down quickly, and the ammonia released is responsible for the unpleasant odor.
What to do?
Over 100 different treatments have been developed to help women with urinary incontinence. The doctor decides about the choice of method. Surgical procedures consist mainly in the mechanical suspension of various parts of the reproductive organ, urethra and bladder in order to restore their proper functioning. However, it should be remembered that the operation is not a causal treatment, therefore the effect of treatment does not always last long.
Conservative treatment is an alternative to surgery. Hormone replacement therapy plays a huge role here. It can be used as monotherapy or along with the entire process of rehabilitation of perineal muscles. This rehabilitation includes exercises to strengthen the muscles of the perineum and electrostimulation treatments. They involve electrocution of certain body structures that cause contraction and training of the muscles of the perineum.
These methods, although they can significantly reduce the symptoms, in many cases still require the use of auxiliary means, i.e. special inserts or diaper pants.
Proper protection – what is it?
For many women suffering from urinary incontinence, the solution seems to be the use of traditional sanitary napkins. However, this is not the best solution. Why? Classic sanitary napkins do not have adequate protection against the outflow of urine and do not have absorbent, which prevents the release of unpleasant odors.
So what to choose? There are several factors to consider: the amount and frequency of your urine leakage, the severity of your condition, your waist circumference, and your weight. Such an insert should be comfortable to wear. It is important that its outer layer is soft, i.e. has the so-called breathable laminate. Thanks to it, the skin in the groin will not be irritated and chafed. In addition, the adhesive strip must adhere well enough to the linen so that the insert does not move. Discretion is equally important. Ideally, the insert should be the size of a classic sanitary napkin. It is important that it has a protection against unpleasant odor in the form of the Odor Stop system. Information on the absorptive capacity of individual types of inserts provided by manufacturers will be an additional facilitation in making a choice.
In order to choose the optimal type, it is best to “test” them yourself. You should also take into account possible (though occasional) skin irritation resulting from wearing the insoles. It is better then to use those less absorbent and free of latex elements.
What to choose?
• Urological pads – they resemble regular sanitary napkins. However, they have a special urine-absorbing and odor-reducing cartridge. The bottom layer is made of a special breathable, skin-friendly material that allows air to flow freely, but is impervious to liquids. The elastic elements are made of natural yarn and do not contain latex. They are intended for people with mild and moderate urinary incontinence.
• Anatomical diapers – used by people with moderate to severe urinary incontinence. They should be used with special elastic panties that keep the diaper in place.
• Diaper pants – for people with significant urinary incontinence, the elderly, lying down and seriously ill.
Urological insoles
If you have a problem with mild to moderate urinary incontinence, ask the pharmacy for urological pads. Don’t think that this is protection that binds you around your waist like a baby’s diaper. Several brands are available for sale, each of them has a full scale of sizes. Choose the one that meets your expectations, will be discreet and… enjoy your life.
Bella Lady
These are hygienic urinary pads adapted to the needs of women with a slight degree of urinary incontinence. Latex free. They were made of natural yarn. They have a superabsorbent and the bottom layer is lined with a breathable laminate.
You Lady
The insoles are intended for women with mild and moderate urinary incontinence. They have an anatomical shape, a wide strap for easy and effective fastening. They let the air through (they belong to the so-called breathing products).
Had lady
Anatomical insoles for women with mild to severe urinary incontinence. They have an odor-reducing system and a breathable outer shell. Latex free.
Text: Anna Romaszkan-Stańczak
Source: Let’s live longer