Stress Incontinence: Care Instructions

Overview

Stress incontinence is the accidental release of urine caused by activities that put pressure on your bladder. It may happen most often when you sneeze, cough, laugh, jog, or lift something heavy. It usually doesn't cause major health problems. But it can be embarrassing and interfere with your life.

Treatment can cure or improve your symptoms.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Limit caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. They make you urinate more.
• Try pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises, which tighten and strengthen pelvic muscles. (If doing these exercises causes pain, stop doing them and talk with your doctor.) To do Kegel exercises:
  • Squeeze your muscles as if you were trying not to pass gas. Or squeeze your muscles as if you were stopping the flow of urine. Your belly, legs, and buttocks shouldn't move.
  • Hold the squeeze for 3 seconds, then relax for 5 to 10 seconds.
  • Start with 3 seconds, then add 1 second each week until you are able to squeeze for 10 seconds.
  • Repeat the exercise 10 times a session. Do 3 to 8 sessions a day.
• Prevent constipation. Make sure you drink enough fluids and include fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet each day.
• If you're at a higher weight, talk to your doctor about safe ways to lose weight. Losing weight can help with stress incontinence.
• Wearing pads that absorb the leaks may help for a time. Pads designed to absorb urine work best.
• Keep skin in the genital area dry. Petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) spread on the area may help protect your skin.
• Take care of your mental health, and get support if you need it. Stress incontinence can affect many aspects of your life, including your mental health. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad or anxious and it is not getting better. Support can also come from a counselor, support group, or trusted friend or family member.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new urinary symptoms. These may include leaking urine, having pain when urinating, or feeling like you need to urinate often.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.