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This case study reviews the role of Continence Champions in promoting best practices in continence care within a care home setting. The recommendations from Attends’ 2023 observational study were implemented at an 85-bed care home that provides person-centred care to residents with varying conditions, including dementia, frailty, physical disabilities and palliative care.How did we achieve this?Following the recommendations from the observational study, Attends introduced the role of Continence Champions in the care home. Continence Champions are trained Nurses or Senior Healthcare Assistants responsible for overseeing the assessment and management of incontinence using Attends products. They ensure that the right products are chosen for each resident and offer guidance on proper product use. The Continence Champions were tasked with: Educating staff on the Attends product range and appropriate product usage. Ensuring the Product Selector Tool is kept up to date and prescribed products are used. Providing support to staff and ensuring correct product use. Research shows that Continence Champions are effective in driving positive changes (Miech et al, 2018). An initial meeting was held with the Care Home Owner, Nurse Manager and In-House Trainer to identify suitable Continence Champions. A tailored training plan was implemented, covering product assessments, product selection, fitting techniques and the importance of using the wetness indicator. The training also emphasised that products can be reapplied if they contain only small amounts of urine. This approach is designed to improve care while reducing the overall cost of incontinence products without compromising on quality.Challenges & Overcoming ResistanceAs with any new initiative, the introduction of Continence Champions was initially well-received. However, there was some resistance from a small minority of staff who were hesitant to switch residents from high absorbency XL all-in-one products to products that better suited their needs based on their urine output and using the correct size of Slip based on their hip and waist measurement. Additionally, there was reluctance to transition from Attends Pull-Ons products to a 2-piece system, which is recommended in the Guidance for the Provision of Absorbent Pads for Adult Incontinence.To address this resistance, Attends provided ongoing support and additional training to staff, helping them to understand the benefits of using the right product for each individual resident.ResultsWith the support of Attends and the Continence Champions, all residents were reassessed, and products were selected based on their individual needs for containment, comfort, discretion and dignity. This has led to a 33% reduction in the overall cost of continence products, with monthly expenditure dropping from £4,000 to £2,667. Additionally, waste disposal costs have been reduced by 50%, from £2,000 to £1,000 per month, thanks to proper product selection, which has minimised unnecessary waste. Continence Champions continue to receive regular updates and training from Attends, ensuring best practices are maintained. Residents are reassessed every six months, unless there is a change in their continence needs.Attends products have been an absolute asset to our home care services here in Maryland. The ease of use and the level of protection provided by these products give both caregivers and patients peace of mind. We’ve seen a reduction in skin irritation and fewer instances of leaks, which has been crucial in maintaining the quality of life for our elderly patients.Raymond, Continence Champion at Maryland HealthcareLong-Term BenefitsThe implementation of Continence Champions brings lasting improvements in care and operational efficiencies. Ongoing staff training on best practices ensures high standards of care while adapting to residents' changing needs. By focusing on appropriate product selection, the care home achieves cost savings, reduces waste and minimises environmental impact. The Continence Champion model helps continuous improvement, empowering staff to make informed decisions and proactively address challenges. Over time, this results in better resident satisfaction, improved care outcomes and a more streamlined approach to continence management. The model is also scalable, offering potential for wider adoption across other care homes or healthcare settings.Going ForwardAttends will continue to provide training and support, recognising that ongoing education is important for maintaining best practice (Castle, 2009). The Continence Champions have proven to be invaluable in managing the provision of containment products and it is essential that replacements are identified promptly when Champions leave the team. This ensures continuity of care and the consistent application of best practices.ConclusionThis case study highlights the benefits of implementing Attends’ recommendations through the role of Continence Champions. By providing specialised training and ongoing support, Attends has helped to streamline incontinence care, ensuring the selection of the right product for each resident’s needs. The resulting cost savings, improved product use and enhanced resident comfort demonstrate the value of this approach in care homes. With the continued support of Attends and the commitment of care home staff, this model is poised to lead to lasting improvements in both care quality and operational efficiency. For more information on how Continence Champions can support your care home or facility, contact us today.I appreciate the fact that Attends offers a wide selection, allowing us to choose the right product for each patient's unique needs. We’ve been using these products for some time now, and they’ve made a noticeable difference in both the quality of care and the satisfaction of our patients.Kellie, Continence Champion at Maryland HealthcareReferences Castle NG. Perceived Advantages & Disadvantages of Using Agency Staff Tool. Br J Community Nursing. 2013;18(12):580–587. Association for Continence Advice Consensus Guidelines Group. Guidance for the Provision of Absorbent Pads for Adult Incontinence: A Consensus Document. Version 19. 2021. Miech EJ, Rattray NA, Flanagan ME, Damschroder L, Schmid AA. Inside Help: An Integrative Review of Champions in Healthcare-Related Implementation. Sage Open Medicine. 2018.

Urinary incontinence can be challenging as each person has different needs. Whether you’ve got stress incontinence (urine leakage when you strain) or urgency incontinence (a sudden strong urge to urinate), we have a product that can help. We have products for all levels of urinary incontinence, so you can be confident that you’ll be protected. But, how do you find the correct absorbency? Keep reading to discover how we simplify finding the right absorbency level for your needs with our easy-to-understand numbering system.Guide to incontinence padsKnowing the difference between the many incontinence pads and products available can help prevent leakage. At Attends, we offer a broad range of incontinence pads in different shapes, sizes and absorbencies, so we can meet your needs. We design our products to ensure protection, comfort and discrretion – no matter how heavy your urine flow might be.The difference between light, moderate and heavy incontinence padsLight incontinence pads are suitable for those who lose a few drops of urine, sometimes even a small gush. They may work best for people with stress incontinence who release a few drops when coughing, sneezing or exerting themselves. Moderate incontinence pads can take more significant gushes of urine, particularly in those with urgency incontinence. However, they are usually only absorbent enough for one gush before they need changing. Heavy incontinence pads can collect large amounts of urine, which can be helpful for those without control over their bladder. They can also sometimes be used for those who also experience faecal incontinence and double incontinence.Attends Numbering SystemTo help you choose the right absorbency level for your needs, Attends offer a simple to use numbering system. We wanted to make finding the best incontinence product for your urine leakage easy – and our numbering system does just that. All of our products have a number from 0 to 10 on them, highlighting their absorbency level:   0, 1, 2 and 3 represent light absorbency for light urinary incontinence. This can be as little as a few drops or a small gush. 4 and 5 highlights moderate absorbency. These incontinence products can take small and larger gushes of urine and be great for those with urgency incontinence. 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are for heavy urinary and faecal incontinence. These pads are our most absorbent and can help those without bladder control and faecal incontinence.   The easiest way to understand our numbering system is to think that 0 is the lowest absorbency and 10 is the highest.Different absorbencies for different needsAttends offers a variety of products in different absorbencies to meet your individual needs. We understand that each individual has a unique body shape, which is why we provide you with a wide selection of options to choose from.   To understand the Attends product range, check out the table below.Attends absorbencyAbsorbency is an essential factor when choosing an incontinence product. We’ve designed our range with your comfort in mind, ensuring discreet protection at all times. Our products are versatile, with options that can be worn with your own underwear or used with Attends fixation pants. We also offer all-in-one products featuring adjustable tabs, providing an excellent fit and enhanced comfort. In addition, we have incontinence pads specifically designed for nighttime use (nocturia and nocturnal enuresis). Their wider backs ensure you stay protected, even when lying in bed. Our many incontinence products mean you can find the best product that suits your needs without compromising on comfort or protection.Choose your incontinence products with AttendsOur numbering system makes finding a suitable incontinence product easy for you — as it should be. If you want further advice about our products, we can help. Our wide range of incontinence products offer unique leakage protection and a comfortable fit. Discover our full range of incontinence products. Sources●      https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence/ ●      https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence/symptoms/

We’re all different in our approach to sex. While some people see it as an opportunity to bond with their partner, others have it purely for pleasure and fun. Research shows that sex can boost your mood and improve your quality of life. However, sex can be a challenging subject for people with incontinence. Incontinence is a common problem and it can affect your sex life and lead to feelings of embarrassment and insecurity. This article discusses how incontinence affects sex, whether sex can cause incontinence and how you can prepare for sex despite incontinence. Learn all you need to know with Attends.Incontinence & SexExperiencing incontinence during sex can be embarrassing – but it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s usual for people with incontinence to experience some leaks during sex, and an understanding partner will be supportive. The pelvic floor muscles support your bladder and bowel. However, sex can put extra pressure on your bladder, and if your pelvic floor muscles aren’t strong enough, urine can leak. With faecal incontinence, pressure on your bowels can also cause involuntary faecal matter or flatulence. Some people with incontinence may also have trouble reaching orgasm. There could be several reasons why this may occur, for example, the inability to relax during sex because of the risk of leakage. For all of these reasons, incontinence can impact your sex life, resulting in a reduced desire for intimacy. But it is possible to work through it together.How much will I leak during sex?Doctors usually prescribe diuretics (sometimes called water tablets) to reduce blood pressure by flushing out excess water and salt from the body. However, diuretics increase urine production to do this, so you may need to use the bathroom more often. Sometimes, taking diuretics can lead to overflow incontinence, where your bladder becomes too full and you leak urine. At other times, it can result in urgency incontinence, where you must urinate suddenly and urgently – and, occasionally, don’t make it to the bathroom in time. You might also develop stress incontinence due to having more urine in your bladder than usual. This means you leak urine when exerting yourself through coughing, sneezing or exercising.Does sex cause incontinence?Sex may not be the underlying cause of your incontinence, but it can trigger it. The extra pressure on your pelvic floor muscles, bladder or bowels can all lead to involuntary leaks. You may feel sudden urges to urinate or need to urinate more often if you have an overactive bladder. Feeling the need to urinate very suddenly can be tricky during sex, and you might worry it will ruin the mood. So, communication with your partner is key. It is important to remind you partner that you may need to stop if you feel uncomfortable, and work through this together. Some people find an association between their incontinence and other sexual dysfunctions such as difficulty maintaining erections, premature ejaculation and vaginal dryness (often linked to menopause, which can also link to incontinence). However, your doctor, sexual health nurse or continence nurse specialist may be able to help.Preparing for sex when dealing with incontinenceHaving incontinence doesn’t mean you shouldn’t feel attractive or desired. Preparation is one way in which you can feel better about your condition during sex.   Here are some top tips that can help you feel more ‘in the mood’ and desirable even when living with incontinence:  Having a bath or shower beforehand will help you to feel fresh, as well as helping to improve your confidence. Wet wipes can also help to gently cleanse the skin, leaving you feeling clean and confident if you’re worried about odours. Wear something that makes you feel sexy – you’ll feel much more confident. Light some candles and play some music to set the mood.   As well as creating a comfortable environment, other actions can help manage your condition and make you feel confident: Tell your partner about your fears and anxieties about incontinence during sex. Honest, vulnerable conversations can bring you closer together and alleviate your worries. Empty your bladder before sex to minimise the risk of leakage and allow you to relax and enjoy yourself.  Try to avoid food and drinks that irritate your bladder, like caffeine and alcohol, in the hours leading to sex.  Performing pelvic floor exercises regularly to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and reduce the risk of leaks. Pelvic floor exercises are also crucial as a weak pelvic floor can affect anyone.  Use protective bed sheets or have a towel on hand in case of leaks. Our Cover-Dri surface protection underpads can be helpful, as they’re absorbent enough for leaks and their quilt design provides additional comfort. Different sexual positions may reduce pressure on your bladder, so trying something new can be more than just fun.  Men could try a specific device called a variable tension constriction band, which goes around the base of the penis before sex. It helps to maintain erectile function and compresses your urethra (the hole where urine leaves the body) to stop leakage. Before using this, always seek medical advice as there may be other options more suited to your needs.  What if I have faecal incontinence?Anal intercourse is a common practice among both heterosexual and homosexual couples. However, faecal incontinence, including flatulence, can significantly impact sexual function, with some individuals experiencing lower sexual satisfaction due to the potential for accidental bowel leakage during sexual activity. Engaging in anal intercourse may exacerbate the issue by overstimulating the bowel or even causing severe constipation, which can make sex painful. If this happens, it’s important to see a doctor. The best thing you can do is go to the bathroom and empty your bowels before sex. Drink plenty of water and eat a well-balanced diet to promote regular bowel movements. If faecal incontinence does occur, stay calm, talk to your partner, and discuss how you both can handle it if and when it happens. Your doctor, continence nurse, or sexual health nurse can help you explore ways to treat the cause of the incontinence, such as medication, diet, pelvic floor exercises, and aids or devices that may help manage the issue.Managing your incontinence with the support of AttendsIt’s vital to remember that you can effectively manage incontinence. However, if you’re still concerned, you should always seek your doctor’s, continence specialist’s or sexual health nurse’s advice, as they can offer tailored emotional and physical support. At Attends, we know that sex and incontinence don’t often go hand in hand. However, with the proper support and preparation, you can get back to having an active sex life – even when living with incontinence. Discover our range of incontinence products for men and women to help gain more confidence in the bedroom and during your everyday life. Sources●      https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6214215/ ●      https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5293379/ ●      https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence/symptoms/ ●      https://nafc.org/bhealth-blog/bladder-health-and-sex/ ●      https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/managing-bowel-leakage-anal-plug/

Medication is an integral part of many people’s lives, helping to treat and manage many diverse health conditions. However, certain medications can cause side effects that can disrupt your daily life. In this post, we will explore some medications that cause urinary incontinence. Please speak with your doctor or continence specialist if you are experiencing urinary incontinence.Medications that can cause incontinenceWhile it might not be well known, many medications can lead to incontinence. This is often because they increase urine production, rather than causing you to lose bladder control.  Increased urine production can make it more challenging to contain your bladder and lead to overflow urgency incontinence. Let’s look at some of the most common medications that cause incontinence. DiureticsDoctors usually prescribe diuretics (sometimes called water tablets) to reduce blood pressure by flushing out excess water and salt from the body. However, diuretics increase urine production to do this, so you may need to use the bathroom more often. Sometimes, taking diuretics can lead to overflow incontinence, where your bladder becomes too full and you leak urine. At other times, it can result in urgency incontinence, where you must urinate suddenly and urgently – and, occasionally, don’t make it to the bathroom in time. You might also develop stress incontinence due to having more urine in your bladder than usual. This means you leak urine when exerting yourself through coughing, sneezing or exercising.AntidepressantsDepression is a complicated, common mental health condition that often requires antidepressant medication. However, some antidepressants can reduce your ability to empty your bladder, leading to overflow incontinence. Some antidepressants can also make it difficult for you to realise when you need to go to the bathroom, leading to urgency incontinence as you struggle to notice your natural cues.  High blood pressure medicationIf you have high blood pressure, a doctor may prescribe medication to help lower it, such as alpha-blockers, beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers. These are designed to dilate your blood vessels, lowering your blood pressure. However, these medications can also make it easier for urine to flow out of your body by relaxing the bladder. This process may lead to incontinence as you might be unable to hold your urine, especially when you’re active.Mood stabilisersDoctors usually prescribe mood stabilisers to manage mental health conditions like bipolar disorder. Lithium is the most common treatment, but long-term use can potentially cause diabetes insipidus (a condition unrelated to diabetes). This condition means your kidneys cannot retain water, which then increases your urine production.Other possible medications that may cause incontinenceAs well as prescription medications, some over-the-counter medications may increase your risk of incontinence. However, some of these medications are also available on prescription in stronger doses, so be mindful when thinking about adjusting your doses of these medications and do so with your doctor’s guidance. Here are some of the non-prescription medications that might cause incontinence. AntihistaminesPeople often take antihistamines to help with hay fever symptoms and other allergies. However, they can relax your bladder and cause it to retain urine, making it hard for it to empty. This may then lead to overflow incontinence as a side effect and make you may want to urinate more often.Sleeping tabletsYou might reach for something medicinal to help you sleep at night. But sometimes, your sleeping tablets can interrupt a restful night’s sleep by causing incontinence.   Taking a sleeping tablet can cause you to miss your body’s natural cues to wake up and use the bathroom. As a result, you may experience either urgency incontinence or even nighttime incontinence – where you end up wetting the bed.Dealing with medication-caused incontinenceAlthough certain medications can cause incontinence, there are ways to minimise your symptoms and reduce the risk of it developing. Medication can be essential in some cases, so learning to manage your incontinence is a helpful place to start. First, you must speak with your doctor to let them know about your incontinence symptoms. They can then confirm if they can change or adjust your medication. Never stop taking your prescribed medication unless advised by your doctor. If you cannot adjust or change your medication, you can minimise your risk of experiencing incontinence symptoms through various lifestyle changes.Some of the best ways to minimise your incontinence risk include: Avoiding caffeine – caffeine is a bladder stimulant, so if you’re experiencing increased urine production, your incontinence symptoms might worsen. Whether it’s urgency incontinence or simply needing to go much more frequently, caffeine can make incontinence even harder to deal with. Try swapping to decaffeinated drinks to limit your risk of bladder stimulation and incontinence.  Monitoring your fluid intake – although keeping hydrated is vital, drinking too much liquid can increase your incontinence symptoms. Monitor how much you drink and avoid drinking lots of liquid before bed to help reduce your risk of leakage.  Cutting down on alcohol – alcohol is another bladder stimulant that can cause incontinence. It can also make you less aware of needing the bathroom, especially while sleeping. Cutting back on your alcohol intake is not only beneficial for your general health, but it can also help you manage your incontinence more effectively. Using incontinence products – many products offer protection regardless of your level or type of incontinence. Finding the right product isn’t as challenging as it once was due to the wide selection so that you can feel confident even with incontinence.Explore Attends' full range of incontinence productsMedication-induced incontinence is more common than you might think, with many people experiencing symptoms while trying to care for their health. Although it can be a troublesome side effect of medication, managing it is possible. At Attends, we offer various incontinence products that provide discreet protection. When you choose Attends incontinence products, you can effectively manage your incontinence alongside the support of your doctor. Discover our complete range of incontinence products to learn how Attends can help with your medication-induced incontinence.  Sources●  NHS - Conditions: Urinary Incontinence ●  Harvard Health - Medications That Can Cause Urinary Incontinence ●  NHS Conditions: Causes of Urinary Incontinence ●  National Library of Medicine - Drug-Induced Urinary Incontinence

While urinary incontinence is often associated with older people, you can experience it at any age. Many young women may develop urinary incontinence for several reasons and understanding what’s causing your condition may help you manage it better. In this post, we explain what incontinence in young women can look like, highlighting its possible causes and providing tips to help you manage it. What is incontinence in young women?Urinary incontinence is the involuntary passing of urine – either a few drops or the complete emptying of your bladder. Sometimes, it can happen urgently, known as urgency incontinence. At other times, it can occur when you exert yourself by sneezing, coughing, jumping or exercising (stress incontinence). If you’re a young woman experiencing urinary incontinence, remember that you’re not alone. The good news is that generally speaking, you can improve and manage your urinary incontinence to regain your confidence and continue doing the things you love. While urinary incontinence in young women isn’t typical, it can sometimes occur for an underlying reason.Possible causes of incontinence in young womenThe most common type of incontinence that affects younger women is stress incontinence which happens when there is stress or pressure on the bladder. Urinary incontinence in younger women can be caused by certain lifestyle habits, like drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, strenuous exercise, childbirth and health issues like urinary tract infections, hormonal changes, constipation or having to take certain medications. Speaking with your doctor or continence specialist is an essential first step, as they can investigate your symptoms and rule out or diagnose the underlying cause. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key causes of urinary incontinence in young women.ChildbirthChildbirth is one of the most common causes of urinary incontinence in women. When you’re pregnant, the hormonal changes and weight of your baby can weaken and stretch your pelvic floor muscles. Not only that but giving birth can also weaken your pelvic floor, especially during vaginal delivery.   Generally, childbirth causes stress incontinence, increasing your symptoms when you laugh, cough, sneeze or exercise. Some young women may be more at risk of developing incontinence after childbirth if: - It’s their first baby - You already have bladder or bowel problems before or during pregnancy - Your baby was particularly large and you gave birth naturally - You had a long labour -  Your delivery was difficult Although stress incontinence from childbirth can be frustrating to deal with, you can improve it by strengthening your pelvic floor muscles with regular exercises that target them. However, always speak with your doctor or continence specialist before performing pelvic floor exercises. That way, they can ensure they’re right for your needs.Increased urine production at nightAs a woman, many fluctuating hormones in your body can increase and drop rapidly throughout your menstrual cycle. Before you ovulate (release an egg from the ovaries), your oestrogen levels peak before decreasing until your period starts. Oestrogen is one of the most vital hormones and low levels can increase stress and urgency incontinence. Low levels can cause urinary tract and pelvic floor issues, for example, leading to potential difficulties in holding your urine. If you have a hormonal imbalance, you may experience lower-than-average oestrogen levels, increasing your risk of incontinence. Because of this, you might also notice symptoms occur more often during the stage of your menstrual cycle when your oestrogen begins to drop (after ovulation).Excessive exercisingAlthough exercising is usually good for your overall health, high-impact exercises, like running and weight lifting, can potentially weaken your pelvic floor and lead to stress incontinence. If you’re experiencing stress incontinence while exercising, changing your routine to something less impactful might make a difference. Exercises like Pilates have less impact on your body and can also strengthen your core, which helps support your pelvic floor muscles. Type one or type two diabetesBeing overweight or obese is one of the main risk factors for urinary incontinence in young women. A body mass index (BMI) of over 30 dramatically increases your risk of developing incontinence. Having a high BMI means additional weight is putting an added strain on your pelvic floor muscles and abdomen, weakening them and leading to an increased risk of incontinence.Other medical conditionsCertain medications can cause urinary incontinence in younger women. Some antidepressants can cause urinary retention (where your bladder doesn’t empty), which then leads to overflow incontinence (where your bladder becomes too full and involuntarily releases).    Some examples of medications that can affect the bladder are listed below: Blood pressure medications – Some blood pressure tablets can cause overflow incontinence by relaxing the bladder and preventing it from contracting   Antidepressants – Can cause urinary retention and overflow incontinence Alpha-blockers – Relax the bladder outlet and urethra Antihistamines – can relax the bladder, making it difficult for the bladder to release urine. This can cause the bladder to fill up and leak urine unexpectedly. e Anticonvulsants – Can be associated with urinary incontinence Oestrogens – Can be associated with urinary incontinence. However, some evidence suggests that local oestrogen therapy, such as vaginal creams or pessaries, may improve incontinence   Diuretics – Also known as water pills, these medications make your body produce more urine A combination of different factors can also potentially cause incontinence in young women. For example, if you take a particular medication and perform high-impact exercises regularly, this could elevate your risk. However, as medication plays an essential role in your overall health, stopping them both entirely isn’t a good idea. That’s why it’s important to speak to your doctor or continence specialist for advice. They can review your medication and offer advice regarding lifestyle changes.Lifestyle tips to promote continenceWith this in mind, here are some of our top tips to help you manage your condition with the support of a continence specialist: Cut down on caffeine – caffeine is a bladder stimulant, increasing urine production and your risk of incontinence. Try swapping to decaf instead to see if this makes a difference.  Switch your exercise routine – if your current exercise routine often ends in stress incontinence, the exercises you’re performing might not be helping your pelvic floor. Try using low-impact exercises to strengthen your core instead, and add pelvic floor exercises to your daily routine. Eat a balanced diet – as well as exercising, eating a nutritious diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce urinary incontinence.  Seek medical advice for hormonal profiles or medication adjustments – you can address hormonal imbalances or medication that causes urinary incontinence in young women by speaking to your doctor. You may be able to reduce your incontinence if they can treat the underlying cause or adjust your medications.  Try incontinence products – whilst you’re waiting for treatment, if your incontinence makes you anxious about leaving the house, female incontinence products could help you regain control. Incontinence products are no longer ample, bulky pads that make you feel even more self-conscious. Nowadays, a broad range of discreet products can provide you with comfort, protection and confidence.Manage your incontinence with AttendsBeing a young woman with incontinence can harm your self-esteem and make it challenging to do what you enjoy. However, by taking on board our top incontinence tips and understanding the cause of your incontinence, you can get it back under control (and, in some cases, even improve it).  At Attends, we offer many incontinence products for young women that are discreet yet provide full protection. So, you can carry on doing what you love with confidence and complete incontinence protection. Discover our entire range of incontinence products to see how you can effectively manage your condition. Sources●  NHS - Key Causes of Urinary Incontinence ●  National Institute of Health - Information for Women (Urinary Incontinence) ●  American Journal of Obstetrics - Urinary Incontinence, BMI and Physical Activity in Young Women ●  National Library of Medicine - Improving Urinary Incontinence in Overweight & Obese Women ●  NHS Inform - Urinary Incontinence in Women  

Nocturia and nocturnal enuresis are two types of nighttime urination that can occur in adults. While they may sound similar, there are some key differences between the two conditions. Nocturia, for example, is where you wake up several times during the night to urinate – something which can greatly affect your quality and quantity of sleep as well as your overall wellbeing. Nocturnal enuresis, or adult bedwetting, is when you involuntarily urinate while you’re still fast asleep – something you may remember doing as a child. However, nocturnal enuresis is different to wetting the bed as a child. This is because, in most cases, childhood bedwetting is caused by either not using the bathroom before bed, stress at home or school, or not feeling the urge to use the bathroom while sleeping. As an adult, however, the underlying causes for nocturnal enuresis can be different and, while much rarer than child bedwetting, is estimated to affect between one and two per cent of UK adults. At Attends, we understand that both nocturia and nocturnal enuresis can cause embarrassment and sleep problems for people with these conditions and their caregivers. That’s why we’ve written this article to teach you all you need to know about how to manage both conditions effectively.Causes of nocturia and nocturnal enuresisThere are multiple different potential causes of nocturia and nocturnal enuresis but there are many reasons why you may need to urinate more during the night or end up wetting the bed.Caffeine and alcoholNocturnal enuresis and nocturia can both be caused by what you drink and how much. Caffeine, for example, stimulates your bladder and increases urine production, so it’s easy to see how drinks like coffee and tea can contribute towards these conditions. Alcohol is also a diuretic which means it can cause you to urinate more. And since many people will typically drink alcoholic drinks in the evenings, this means that when you go to sleep, the diuretic properties may still take effect throughout the night.Medications that can cause nocturia and enuresisTaking certain medications may cause nocturnal enuresis and nocturia. For example, some medications used to help with mental health conditions can have side effects such as acting as a diuretic. This can lead to nocturia, especially when your body is first getting used to the medication. Medications used to treat sleep disorders can also increase your risk of nocturnal enuresis. Although these are designed to help you sleep, they may also cause you to miss the cues needed to wake up and head to the bathroom. If you’re worried that your medications are causing nocturia or nocturnal enuresis, speak with your doctor. But don’t stop taking it unless advised they tell you to.Changes to your bladderIn some cases, your bladder can’t store urine as well as it should. This may be because your bladder is smaller than needed or you have bladder overactivity. Bladder overactivity is where the muscles in your bladder walls are less stretchy and tighten when they should relax. This can cause you to need to urinate much more frequently and without much warning, greatly increasing your risk of nighttime bedwetting and nocturia. If you’re experiencing symptoms of bladder overactivity, make sure you speak with your doctor or local continence service so they can provide with you medical support. Increased urine production at nightSometimes, your kidneys are simply unable to reduce the amount of urine they produce at night. Normally, your body produces an antidiuretic hormone called arginine vasopressin which causes your kidneys to produce less urine at night. However, if your body doesn’t make enough of this hormone, your urine production will remain the same and could lead to an increased risk of nocturia and nocturnal enuresis. These low levels of arginine vasopressin may be caused underlying health conditions. Some of the key signs you may have low arginine vasopressin levels include needing to urinate more and having excessive thirst. If you’re concerned, speak with your doctor for further support.Urinary tract infections (UTIs)Nocturnal enuresis may be a sign of type one or two diabetes; uncontrolled diabetes can lead to frequent urination. If you have diabetes, your body struggles to process glucose properly, which may cause an increased production of urine. Having an increased urine production puts you at a higher risk of nocturnal enuresis and nocturia.Type one or type two diabetesNocturnal enuresis may be a sign of type one or two diabetes; uncontrolled diabetes can lead to frequent urination. If you have diabetes, your body struggles to process glucose properly, which may cause an increased production of urine. Having an increased urine production puts you at a higher risk of nocturnal enuresis and nocturia.Other medical conditionsAs well as diabetes, there are other health conditions which may increase your risk of nocturia and nocturnal enuresis. These conditions can include: ● Anxiety ● Kidney infection ● Oedema (swelling of the legs) ● Obstructive sleep apnoea ● Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis These conditions may cause bladder overactivity or problems with your bladder's capacity to hold urine. Urinary tract obstructionAn obstruction or blockage in your urinary tract, such as your urethra (the tube where urine flows down and out of your body), can lead to nocturnal enuresis. These blockages can be caused by things like bladder stones, kidney stones or, in men, having an enlarged prostate, which can all lead to bladder overactivity and eventually, nocturnal enuresis.  How to live with nocturia and nocturnal enuresisWhile it can be challenging to live with nocturia and nocturnal enuresis, there are certain things you can do to try and limit their occurrence. Some of the best ways to manage your nocturia and nocturnal enuresis at home include: ● Cutting down on alcoholic drinks and avoiding caffeine (especially later in the day) and switching to decaf ● Managing uncontrolled diabetes ● Speaking with your doctor about your medications to determine if they’re diuretics, and finally, always using the bathroom before going to bed It can also be useful to keep a bladder diary that details what you drink, how many times you urinate during the day and night, and any other symptoms you experience. This way, you can notice any patterns that may help you get to the bottom of your condition. Incontinence products can also be useful when living with nocturia and nocturnal enuresis. At Attends, we offer a wide range of incontinence products that can be used during the night to protect you (and your mattress) from any involuntary urination that may occur. By making the right lifestyle changes, you may soon find that living with incontinence isn’t as difficult as it once was.How to treat nocturia and nocturnal enuresisGenerally, lifestyle changes are tried first as they can usually provide you with relief. If they don’t help, medication or surgery may be recommended to target the underlying cause. Some common treatments for nocturia and nocturnal enuresis include: Suppressant medications – if your nocturia and nocturnal enuresis are caused by your kidneys making too much urine at night, you may be provided with medication to reduce their nighttime production. This medication is taken before bed and you may not be able to drink an hour before and eight hours afterwards.  Bladder relaxation medication – if your condition is caused by your bladder muscles over-tightening, you may be prescribed medications that help to keep your bladder relaxed. This way, your bladder will be able to hold more urine overnight and reduce your risk of nocturia and nocturnal enuresis.  Prostatectomy and urethra dilation – if you have an enlarged prostate, having a small part or all of it removed may help with nocturia and enuresis. Likewise, if you have an obstruction caused by a narrow urethra, you can have it dilated (stretched) to help alleviate your symptoms.  Bladder stone removal – a urinary tract obstruction caused by bladder stones will need to be treated and surgery is often the best way to remove the stones. With so many different ways to treat nocturia and nocturnal enuresis, it’s important to speak with your doctor as they can confirm which one is right for you.Supporting nocturia and nocturnal enuresis with AttendsWhile they may be difficult conditions to deal with, nocturia and nocturnal enuresis can be managed and, in some cases, even treated. With the right lifestyle changes and personalised treatments, you should be able to easily minimise your risk of nighttime urination. Learn more about our range of continence products that could be used at night. Take a look at our wide range of products. Filtering them to suit your specific needs, should make it much easier to find the solution you need to feel more confident about going to bed at night.  Sources●  Bladder & Bowel - Nocturnal Enuresis ●  National Library of Medicine - Nocturnal Enuresis & Nocturia, Differences & Similarities ●  Bladder & Bowel UK - Bedwetting Adults ●  National Library of Medicine - Arginine Vasopressin Disorder (Diabetes Insipidus) ●  NHS - Diabetes Insipidus - Causes ●  National Library of Medicine - Nocturia  

  Urine leakage when coughing is a surprisingly common problem that affects many women across the UK. In fact, according to a survey of two thousand women, one in five women are said to experience urinary incontinence. In this blog post, we take a detailed look at the main underlying causes of urine leakage when coughing and highlight some of the most effective things you can do to stop it.What causes urine leakage when coughing?If you leak urine when you cough, this will most likely be caused by stress incontinence – a form of incontinence where you leak urine during physical exertion. When you cough, this puts pressure on your abdomen which pushes down on your bladder. If your pelvic floor muscles aren’t strong enough, urine can then leak out. Another reason why urine leakages can happen while coughing is due to your pelvic floor muscles momentarily relaxing when you cough, allowing urine to leak out. However, it’s not just coughing that can bring this on. Urine leakage can also occur when you laugh, sneeze, jump, lift a heavy object or exercise.Some of these main risk factors include: ● Pregnancy ● Childbirth (especially vaginal births) ● Menopause ● Pelvic surgery (like a hysterectomy) ● Uterine prolapse ● Diabetes (associated problems like nerve damage, obesity and bladder infections can cause urinary incontinence) ● Obesity ● Chronic coughing All of these risk factors can weaken your pelvic floor muscles, reduce your ability to hold in your urine when exerting yourself and, ultimately, increase your likelihood of experiencing urine leakages when you cough.What can you do to prevent urine leakage when coughing?Although dealing with urine leakages when coughing can be challenging, there are several things you can do to improve symptoms of stress incontinence. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to manage urine leakage when coughing and regain your confidence.1. ExerciseExercises like yoga and Pilates may help to reduce stress incontinence. Certain poses and movements associated with both of these types of exercise may help improve muscle strength in both your lower body and your pelvic floor, helping minimise your risk of leaks. 2. Pelvic floor exercisesPelvic floor exercises are an important type of exercise that everyone (including men) should do – especially when trying to prevent urine leakage when coughing. These exercises help to strengthen the muscles in your urinary system, giving you more control over your bladder. To locate your pelvic floor muscles, sit or lie down comfortably and squeeze the muscles you would use to stop urine or wind coming out. Hold the muscles tight for a few seconds before releasing.Repeat these exercises numerous times throughout the day and, over time, you should see an improvement in how often you leak urine when you cough. You may wish to speak with your doctor or continence specialist before starting pelvic floor exercises to ensure you’re doing them correctly. Performing pelvic floor exercises incorrectly can lead to further problems.3. Pay attention to what you drinkAlthough coffee is how many people start their day, drinking it can increase the possibility of stress incontinence. Caffeine (found in black and green tea as well as coffee) causes your body to produce more urine and stimulates your bladder. This might make you more likely to leak urine when you cough, so why not try switching to decaffeinated beverages instead? In doing so, this should hopefully reduce your likelihood of experiencing a urine leak. Alcohol is another drink you need to be careful of. Since alcohol is a diuretic, this means it makes you need to urinate more. Cutting down on alcohol can be beneficial when trying to minimise your risk of urine leakage when coughing, as it’ll mean you have less urine in your body to accidentally release.4. Make sure you drink enough waterSome people may feel that they need to cut down on how much water they drink when dealing with stress incontinence. However, this can actually make your condition worse. Not getting enough water can reduce your bladder’s capacity to hold as much urine. It can also increase your chances of constipation, putting further pressure on your pelvic floor muscles. As such, try to drink six to eight glasses of water a day and you should start to notice your stress incontinence symptoms start to improve.5. Stop smoking or vapingWhen you smoke or vape, you put yourself at a much higher risk of developing a chronic cough. When this happens, you put extra strain on your pelvic floor muscles, which can potentially then lead to stress incontinence. So, by trying to give up on smoking or vaping, you should soon see an improvement in your cough and, therefore, the likelihood of urine leakage. 6. Losing weightIf you are overweight or obese, the excess weight can put an increased amount of pressure on your abdominal and pelvic organs. This can lead to a weakened pelvic floor and urine leakage when you cough. However, losing weight healthily through a well-balanced diet and exercise can make a difference. By alleviating the excess pressure on your abdomen and pelvis and strengthening your pelvic floor through exercise, you should be able to minimise urine leakage when you cough.7. Alleviate constipationBeing constipated regularly puts a big strain on your pelvic floor muscles, causing them to weaken. Adding more fibre to your diet can help soften your stools. In doing so, this should mean you don’t have to strain as much when using the bathroom, helping strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Some of the best high-fibre foods to prioritise include: ● Oats, wholegrain bread, cereal and pasta ● Potatoes with their skins on ● Pulses like beans, lentils and chickpeas ● Fruits and vegetables8. Disposable incontinence productsTreating urine leakage can take time so you will need to try and find ways to manage it until that point. Fortunately, incontinence products are available to help provide you with the comfort and security you need whenever you experience leakage when coughing. Nowadays, there is a wide range of incontinence products to choose from. From pads to pants, with a little bit of research, you can quickly find a product absorbent enough for your needs.Supporting urine leakage with AttendsExperiencing incontinence when you cough is common but can be controlled. There are plenty of things you can do to minimise your symptoms, especially when they’re caused by stress incontinence. However, it’s important to speak with your doctor if your symptoms start to become worse, you find that lifestyle changes don’t help or you need advice on which management options you should prioritise. At Attends, for example, we offer a vast range of incontinence products that can help you protect your clothing and dignity when you accidentally leak urine while coughing. Incorporating incontinence products into your life when trying to find additional comfort and support can help when living with stress incontinence. Sources●  NHS Conditions - Urinary Incontinence ●  NHS Conditions - 10 Ways to Stop Leaks ●  Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists - Calling for action to reduce number of women living with poor pelvic floor health ●  NHS Conditions - Treatment for Urinary Incontinence ●  NHS - How to Get More Fibre Into Your Diet

  Kegel exercises (pelvic floor exercises) are commonly known for offering various benefits to women, especially those with weakened pelvic floor muscles from childbirth. But, they can be beneficial for men as well. These exercises are simple to perform and can be done almost anywhere, making them an accessible and effective way to strengthen pelvic floor muscles for everyone, regardless of gender. In this blog post, we explain what pelvic floor training for men is and why it’s beneficial, while also highlighting how you can perform pelvic floor exercises most effectively.What is male pelvic health training?Male pelvic floor training involves using various exercises, such as Kegels, to help strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor. Your pelvic floor is made up of layers of muscle and tissue within your pelvis that stretch from your coccyx (tailbone) to your pubic bone. Your urethra (a thin passage where urine travels to and out from the penis) and rectum (back passage) pass through your pelvic floor muscles, which is why they can impact certain factors like your bladder and bowel control. If your pelvic floor becomes weakened, for example, this can lead to bowel or urine incontinence, where you experience an urgent need to empty your bladder or bowel. Some men may also experience dribbling of urine after urinating or struggle to control the urge to release wind as well. Some of the most common causes of weakened pelvic floor muscles in men include:  ●  Surgery to treat an enlarged prostate gland. ●  Repeatedly straining to empty your bowels. ●  A chronic cough caused by asthma, smoking or bronchitis. ●  Being overweight. ●  Neurological damage from a stroke, spinal injury or multiple sclerosis.Symptoms of a weak pelvic floorIf you have any of the following symptoms, you may already have a weakened pelvic floor: Stress urinary incontinence: Where urine leaks out when coughing, laughing, sneezing or exerting yourself. Bowel incontinence: The accidental leakage of faeces and struggling to hold in wind. Post-micturition dribble: Leaking a few drops of urine after you’ve finished urinating. Erectile dysfunction: Not being able to maintain or gain an erection. Premature ejaculation: Ejaculating before you would like to during sex, usually within two or three minutes. Although your pelvic floor can weaken, it can become strong again through pelvic floor training – using various exercises to tighten and release your pelvic floor muscles both regularly and repeatedly. By retraining your pelvic floor muscles in this way, you may even see an improvement in your incontinence symptoms.Benefits of pelvic floor exercises for menStrengthening your pelvic floor muscles can offer a number of benefits. For example, this might include: ●  Improved bowel and bladder control. ●  Enhanced ability to maintain an erection. ●  Reduced likelihood of premature ejaculation. ●  Minimised risk of incontinence accidents or emergencies. While you won’t see the results of your pelvic floor exercises right away, with enough time and practice, you should start to see an improvement and regain control of your pelvic muscles. Identifying your pelvic floor musclesBefore you try to perform any pelvic floor exercises, you first need to identify the muscles. The best way to do this is by performing the following steps: 1. Sit or lie down with your thighs, buttocks and abdomen relaxed. 2. Try to tighten the ring of muscle around your back passage – it should feel similar to trying to hold in wind. 3. Relax this muscle and tighten it again a few more times until you are confident in identifying it. 4. Now imagine you are urinating and try to activate the muscles you would use to stop it midstream. 5. If you’re using the correct muscles for this, your penis may move towards your abdomen slightly. If you are unable to squeeze your pelvic floor muscles, speak with your doctor as they will be able to rule out any underlying conditions and provide you with tailored advice and support. If you find that pelvic floor exercises are difficult or you're struggling to activate the right muscles, make sure to speak with your doctor or local continence service as doing pelvic floor exercises incorrectly can lead to further problems – hindering your condition instead of improving. Pelvic floor exercises for menOnce you are happy that you’ve found your pelvic floor muscles and know how to tighten and relax them, you’re ready to learn pelvic floor exercises. However, before you get started, make sure that when you’re performing these exercises, you don’t: ●  Squeeze your buttocks. ●  Hold your breath. ●  Stop your flow of urine while actually urinating (as this can disrupt bladder emptying).Simple pelvic floor exercises for menThere are a few pelvic floor exercises you can do that can support the strength of your pelvic muscles. These come in varying levels of difficulty and will require you to exert yourself in different ways and at different speeds. Slow pelvic exercises How to perform slow pelvic exercises: 1 - Tighten your pelvic muscles. 2 - Hold them tightly for as many seconds as you can for up to ten seconds. 3 - Make sure that you’re not squeezing your thigh or buttocks muscles and are solely squeezing your pelvic floor. It should feel like a ‘squeeze and lift’ and your buttocks and thighs should not move. 4 - Slowly relax your muscles for four seconds. 5 - Repeat the slow tightening exercise up to ten times. Difficulty: These exercises are relatively easy but it can be challenging holding your muscles tight for up to ten seconds. How long will it take: If you repeat this exercise ten times, it can take around two and a half minutes.Fast pelvic exercises How to perform fast exercises: 1 - Tighten the muscles of your pelvic floor for one second. 2 - Relax them for one second. 3 - Try to complete ten of these exercises. 4 - Make sure you’re only squeezing and releasing your pelvic muscles, not your thighs or buttocks. Difficulty: These pulsed tightening exercises can be slightly more difficult as they require a lot of control over your pelvic floor muscles. However, they will become easier with time and provide your pelvic floor with a good workout.  How long will it take: If you repeat this exercise ten times, it can take 20 seconds to complete. How often should pelvic floor exercises be performed?You should try to carry out your pelvic floor exercises four to five times a day, every day and perform fast and slow exercises to build up strength. You can also do them in a variety of positions, including sitting, standing, lying down and even walking. Why not use the time you spend brushing your teeth to carry out some exercises or perhaps while you’re sat watching TV? With how quick and easy they are to do, it can be easy to incorporate pelvic floor exercises into your day-to-day routine whenever suits you best.When will I see and feel the results of pelvic floor exercises?Your pelvic floor muscles are like all the other muscles in your body which means it takes time and practice for them to grow stronger. Depending on the current state of your pelvic floor muscles, it can take up to six months for you to see noticeable changes and improvements in your symptoms. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen sooner and you may experience a reduction in your symptoms before then.Discover more about male incontinence support with AttendsPelvic floor exercises can be a great way for you to reduce symptoms of incontinence. However, as it can take some time before you experience the results, you may need additional support in the meantime. At Attends, we offer a wide range of incontinence products for men, tailored to meet the unique challenges you may be facing. Whether you’re experiencing urine dribbling or accidental streams of urine, we have the right product for you. With a regular pelvic floor exercise routine and absorbent incontinence products, you can feel confident in your bladder and bowel control once again.Sources●  Mayo Clinic - Kegel Exercises for Men ●  University Hospitals Sussex - Male Pelvic Floor Exercises ●  NHS UK - Pelvic Floor Exercises for Male Patients ●  Cambridge University Hospitals - Pelvic Floor Exercises in Men FAQs

  Having an overactive bladder can be difficult to manage. From needing to deal with sudden urges to urinate and potential incontinence, this condition can also impact both your emotional health and overall sense of wellbeing. Stress and anxiety are two common problems you may experience alongside an overactive bladder. However, the two also have a bit of a catch-22 relationship. If you already experience stress or anxiety, for example, you may notice these feelings worsen with an overactive bladder. While at the same time, having an overactive bladder could result in you feeling stressed or anxious. So, what can you do to help? There are various ways you can support your mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, as we’ve outlined in this blog post. So keep on reading to discover our top tips.Top tips for managing stress and anxiety with an overactive bladderStress and anxiety can really disrupt your daily life, so finding ways to soothe and improve them is important. Here are some of the most effective ways you can find relief from the stress and anxiety that’s caused by having an overactive bladder.1. Give pelvic floor exercises a tryPelvic floor exercises are designed to strengthen your pelvic floor. A weakened pelvic floor can lead to increased symptoms of incontinence which can, in turn, increase feelings of anxiety and stress. Pelvic floor exercises involve tightening, holding and releasing your pelvic floor muscles. Therefore, by reducing your incontinence symptoms, you can feel more confident and less worried about your overactive bladder as you’ll know you have more control.2. Relax with yogaWhen you’re feeling stressed, the last thing many people feel like doing is hard exercise. Instead, taking up something that helps you focus your mind and connect to your body can be much more helpful. Yoga is all about improving your strength, flexibility and balance but, alongside that, it promotes a deeper sense of self, helping to support and reduce any feelings of anxiety or stress. So why not try taking up a yoga class in your local area? Or, if you’re more comfortable at home, there are hundreds, if not thousands of videos from yoga instructors online that you can easily follow from your living room.3. Minimise your caffeine intakeAlthough a nice hot cup of coffee is many people’s favourite way to start the day, it may be causing you more anxiety than it’s worth. The caffeine in coffee can give you a good burst of energy but it’s also notorious for causing an increased heart rate and jitters, both of which are common symptoms of anxiety. As a stimulant, caffeine also causes your body to release adrenaline, which can lead to you feeling nervous instead of energised. It can also stimulate your bladder, causing you to urinate more and, if you already have an overactive bladder, this can be potentially troublesome. Switching your cup of coffee to a decaffeinated option instead could help reduce any caffeine-based anxieties you have and allow you to get back to enjoying your mornings free of stress. 4. Build a strong support networkFeelings of stress and anxiety from an overactive bladder are much more common than you realise. Some people with an overactive bladder may feel isolated as they don’t have anyone to talk to who truly understands. However, finding others who are going through the same thing can help with the emotional aspect of living with the condition. Try finding local support groups or join online forums to create a strong support network that can be there for you when times get tough or provide you with someone to talk to at the end of a difficult day. Talking through your emotions and the challenges of having an overactive bladder can be a great stress reliever and help you realise that you’re not alone in your condition. 5. Get enough sleepHaving an overactive bladder means you will most likely need to get up multiple times in the night to go to the bathroom. However, interrupted sleep (or a lack of sleep) can increase feelings of stress and anxiety. To make sure you get enough sleep each night, try to prioritise a healthy bedtime routine. This should involve: -  Going to bed and getting up at the same time – even on the weekends -  Avoiding lots of fluids before going to bed -  Not using your phone or watch TV while in bed -  Partaking in relaxing activities before bed like yoga or reading By getting a healthy night’s sleep each night, your emotional health should benefit and you should wake up feeling a lot more refreshed.6. Aromatherapy and calming smellsSometimes you can’t prevent feelings of stress or anxiety from occurring and it can make you feel worse when you don’t know how to stop them from taking over. However, one handy tip many people like to use is aromatherapy. Certain scents, like lavender, chamomile and jasmine, can have a calming effect on your body and mind. Carrying around your favourite calming essential oil can work wonders when you feel your levels of anxiety or stress building. Taking a few moments to inhale and exhale the aroma can relax your body and focus your mind, allowing any feelings of stress to fall by the wayside.  7. Enjoy the outdoors (even when it's not sunny)When you feel anxious about an overactive bladder, going outside, far away from a toilet can be understandably triggering. However, this again can lead to a bit of a catch-22. Not knowing when you’ll be able to get to a toilet if you need to go urgently can drastically increase your anxiety and stress levels, for example. But not going outside can have a detrimental effect on your emotional wellbeing. Vitamin D is an important vitamin your body needs and studies have found that low levels of it can be linked to depression and anxiety. While our bodies can get vitamin D through certain foods, we also create it when exposed to direct sunlight, which is why getting outside whenever you can is important for keeping your levels topped up. As well as vitamin D, just being outside and connected with nature has been shown to lower your levels of stress and anxiety. Here are some ways you can get outside when living with an overactive bladder: -  Plan ahead and know where your closest bathroom is -  Let a loved one or trusted friend know about your condition so they can support you -  Find places easily accessible to you or close to home to keep your anxiety at bay -  Sit in your garden and enjoy a good book -  Practise yoga in your gardenEasing stress and anxiety on a day-to-day basis with AttendsEasing stress and anxiety can be a great way to help you deal with your overactive bladder daily. From helping you regain your confidence to creating a support system and getting sleep, there are lots of ways you can minimise feelings of stress and anxiety caused by an overactive bladder. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an overactive bladder, be sure to get in touch with your doctor or local continence service for medical support and care. At Attends, we understand the emotional and physical challenges having an overactive bladder can bring. That’s why we offer a wide range of incontinence products to suit a variety of needs. With an additional layer of support and comfort, you can effectively reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety and get back to doing the things you love.Sources●  Healthline - Overactive Bladder & Anxiety ●  Healthlife - Overactive Bladder & Anxiety, Home Remedies ●  Mayo Clinic - Overactive Bladder, Diagnosis & Treatment ●  National Library of Medicine - Caffeine Intake & Anxiety, An Analysis ●  National Library of Medicine - Is Vitamin D Important in Anxiety or Depression?

  Living with incontinence can be a daily challenge. Whether it be rushing around trying to find a bathroom in time or forgetting incontinence products while you’re away from home, there are all sorts of problems you might face. However, making some lifestyle adjustments can help you not only manage your condition more effectively but also boost your confidence in your daily life.Understanding incontinence There are a few different types of incontinence and they can each cause different problems. The main types of incontinence include: ●  Stress incontinence – urine leaks if your bladder is under pressure from coughing or laughing. ●  Urgency incontinence – you feel the need to urinate urgently and you may leak before reaching the bathroom. ●  Overflow incontinence – if you cannot fully empty your bladder, this can lead to frequent leaking. ●  Functional incontinence – you are unable to get to the toilet on time. ●  Mixed urinary incontinence – you have both urgency and stress incontinence symptoms. ●  Neurogenic bladder dysfunction – bladder problems due to disease or injury to your central nervous system or peripheral nerves which help control urination. Seeking medical advice for your incontinence is essential as your doctor will need to rule out any possible underlying conditions before putting you onto a personalised treatment plan.Managing Incontinence Learning different techniques and coping strategies is a vital part of living with incontinence. So let’s take a look at some of the most effective ways to manage your condition.   Lifestyle Adjustments Lifestyle adjustments can be a good way to manage your symptoms. When it comes to your diet, try to avoid bladder irritants like caffeine which can make you more likely to experience urgency or leaks. Staying hydrated is also important, but try to limit any fluid intake before bed to minimise your risk of nighttime leaks. Aim for six to eight glasses of fluid per day. If you have any underlying medical conditions, always check with your GP or healthcare professional how much you should be drinking.   Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles is another good way to reduce incontinence. Incorporate exercises designed for your pelvic floor, like Kegels, into your daily routine to help support bladder control. Learn more about strengthening your pelvic floor with our online e-learning modules. Being overweight can lead to a weakened pelvic floor and extra pressure on your bladder, increasing your risk of incontinence. As such, make sure to eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly to help maintain a healthy weight.Practical tips for daily living Dealing with incontinence means you will need to incorporate some practical tips into your day-to-day life to support your health and wellbeing. Here are some of our main recommendations: ●  Choose the right incontinence product for your needs – make sure you have the right level of absorbency and the right type of product for your body and symptoms. ●  Always carry spare incontinence products and clothing with you when you leave the house. ●  When at work or in a social setting, make sure to use the bathroom regularly to reduce the need for urgency or leaks.  ●  If you’re travelling, plan for breaks so you can go to the bathroom and always pack all the products you might need.  ●  When taking the train or plane, try to sit in an aisle seat so you can easily access bathrooms as many times as you need. By planning proactively for your incontinence, you can find that your risk of leaks and urgency decreases. You’ll also feel prepared and confident for anything the day might throw your way.Emotional support and coping strategies Living with incontinence can be emotionally challenging. That’s why it’s so important to seek support from healthcare professionals and your loved ones. Healthcare professionals can provide you with guidance and treatment options, while your loved ones can provide you with emotional support and understanding. Coping with the potential embarrassment or stigma surrounding incontinence involves open communication. Talking about it is important, especially if you encounter a difficult situation or conversation. Understanding incontinence and sharing your knowledge with others can help break the stigma around it and let people know it’s okay to talk about it.Online incontinence resources There are lots of online resources available if you are dealing with incontinence. Some that can provide you with further support include Bladder & Bowel UK, Carers UK (continence care) and Bladder Health UK. You can also use the Great British Toilet Map to look for public toilets whenever you’re next planning a trip or outing.   Maintaining a positive outlook Maintaining a positive outlook when living with incontinence might seem easier said than done. But, by embracing self-care practices and prioritising your needs, you may feel a significant change in your mindset. Try setting yourself realistic, achievable goals and always celebrate every victory – no matter how small. Being proactive when managing your symptoms can provide you with a greater sense of control over your condition and help you keep feeling positive, despite living with incontinence. Effectively managing incontinence involves making lifestyle changes and seeking support when you need it. Being proactive with your symptoms by planning ahead and incorporating healthy foods, exercises and routines can also help support you on a daily basis.Explore incontinence products with Attends At Attends, we understand that your incontinence needs are unique which is why we offer a wide range of incontinence products. Our daily solutions have been supporting people with incontinence for 40 years and now, thanks to our highly specialised range of products, you can easily find something that works for you. Explore the complete range of Attends incontinence products.Sources ●  NHS - 10 Ways to Stop Leaks ●  Mayo Clinic - Bladder Control Problems ●  NHS - Treatment for Urinary Incontinence ●  The Urology Foundation - Incontinence Tips

  As a healthcare professional, you may be used to having difficult conversations with patients or explaining complicated results to the parent of a young child. However, some topics can be more challenging to talk about than others. Incontinence is something many patients can feel embarrassed about and they may not know how to explain their symptoms to you because of this. This can result in patients not getting the support and advice they need to improve their quality of life. However, there are ways you can navigate conversations about incontinence and transform them into positive, constructive experiences for your patients. In this post, we will provide you with some effective tips for discussing incontinence with your patients to ensure they receive the support they need without feeling embarrassed or ashamed.The importance of effective communication When it comes to sensitive subjects like incontinence, effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients is key. While patients may seek advice for their condition, actually talking about it with you can be daunting – especially if it’s for the first time. As such, make sure you let your patient know that incontinence is a common problem and that there are numerous incontinence products and treatments available to provide relief. By effectively communicating your knowledge of the condition and providing your patient with personalised advice, you can make sure they leave the conversation feeling empowered.Challenges healthcare professionals can face There may be times when you face challenges when trying to discuss incontinence with patients. For example, some of these challenges may include: ●  The patient may not want to talk about it as it may be a ‘taboo’ subject for them ●  They might not want to admit they are experiencing incontinence ●  Feeling overwhelmed by what you’re saying ●  English might not be their first language or they communicate through sign language ●  They may have limited vocabulary or might be unable to read ●  Patients can have speech difficulties which can make it difficult to communicate ●  Feeling uncomfortable talking about it with others outside their support system Knowing when to raise the subject of incontinence is important. It’s best to bring it up when your patient is calm and can focus on your words. Try to be aware of any cues that might suggest your patient wants to discuss something with you too. As a healthcare professional, it’s crucial you understand when a patient needs to be referred to a specialist. While you can provide support and advice, sometimes their incontinence needs are best met by an incontinence specialist. Overcoming these challenges is possible and doing so can make a big difference in your patient’s overall quality of life.Top tips for discussing incontinence with patience While there are some challenges to overcome, navigating conversations about incontinence can have a huge knock-on effect on how well a patient manages their condition. You should use an empathic, matter-of-fact tone of voice. If you feel uncomfortable, don't let this show as it can make your patient uncomfortable too.  Identify and assess how they communicate and look out for non-verbal cues. Simple techniques such as using low-tech aids, signs, picture symbols and communication books can be useful if they are struggling. Here are some of our top tips to help you have these difficult conversations while instilling confidence in both yourself and your patient.Establish trust and comfort One of the most important things you can do is to establish a sense of trust and comfort with your patient. By helping them feel at ease, they may become more open to having difficult conversations or sharing any symptoms they’re particularly embarrassed about. Some patients also benefit from having the reassurance that what they say is confidential and will not be shared without consent. This helps develop trust and can make them more willing to share personal information with you.Use empathetic language Using the right language can make conversations around incontinence easier for you and your patient. Reassure them by letting them know how common incontinence is and that it’s not impossible to manage effectively. Each patient is different; some may be happy to talk about their bathroom habits, while others might not be. Therefore, it can be a useful exercise to put yourself in the shoes of a patient struggling with incontinence and think about what you would like your healthcare professional to say to you. This may help you generate some open questions and supportive phrases to help them feel more comfortable. Incontinence is a difficult condition to manage on its own and it can cause lots of negative feelings for the patient. So try to be understanding if they are closed off or shut down when you talk to them about it. By demonstrating empathy in how you talk to them, your patient may come around and feel more comfortable about opening up.Educating patients Many patients will have a strict idea of what incontinence looks like, believing many of the stereotypes and stigmas associated with it. However, by explaining the causes, symptoms and common misconceptions, you can provide your patients with the education they need to fully understand the condition. Resources can be a huge help for patients as well, especially if they feel overwhelmed or confused. Some patients need time to adjust on their own or with their loved ones, so providing them with supportive resources can make all the difference.   Have an open dialogue It’s important that during these conversations with your patients, you make them feel at ease and as though they are free to talk about their experiences. Asking them open questions rather than ones with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers can feel less direct. For example, asking ‘Are you experiencing any problems with going to the toilet?’ creates an opportunity for the patient to explain their symptoms without feeling as though they are being diagnosed with something straight away or put on the spot. It can take some patients a lot of courage to talk openly about their symptoms, so try to keep the dialogue open and let the conversation flow naturally without any direct questions (except when necessary).Collaborate on decision-making One final tip when discussing incontinence with patients is to involve them in the decision-making about their condition. After all, there are so many different treatments and products out there, and each patient will have unique needs and preferences. So if you simply tell a patient what they must and must not do, they can feel restricted or as though they have no say in the decision. Ask them what their preferences would be and keep them involved every step of the way. And if they have a carer with them, keep them as actively involved as possible. By making collaborative decisions with your patient about their management plan, you can help empower them to take control of their incontinence. Remember, care should be person-centred and not just focused on tasks and processes. An important element of care is to be aware of and sensitive to the features of a person’s life, including their values, feelings and beliefs and promote dignity.  Incontinence products with Attends Although incontinence is a complicated condition, conversations about it with patients don’t have to be. By providing them with knowledge and resources, promoting open, empathetic dialogue and establishing trust, you too can easily navigate conversations with patients about incontinence. When it comes to providing patients with information on incontinence products, you can also rely on Attends to be the brand that meets their needs. We offer a huge range of products that can help your patients manage their incontinence on a daily basis. Discover more about the Attends incontinence products range.Sources ●  Bladder & Bowel UK - Starting Conversations with Patients About Bladder & Bowel Health ●  The BMJ - Incontinence is Lonely & Hard to Talk About

Embarking on a journey to a happier and healthier you isn't always easy, but the New Year can be a great time to start. One particular health challenge that many people often face is the issue of incontinence – a lack of voluntary control over when you need to visit the toilet. While it’s not always possible to prevent incontinence completely, there are several things you can do to manage it more effectively. In this guide, we will outline what some of these methods involve, allowing you to support your bladder health and navigate social events with a newfound level of confidence. Setting realistic resolutions Managing incontinence is not about finding a cure or making it so you never have an accident again. Managing incontinence should instead focus on making progress and finding ways to feel confident, no matter the situation you find yourself in. Acknowledge the progress you make Improving incontinence may not be a simple, straight path, and you should expect a variety of ups, downs and unexpected turns along the way. Nobody is perfect and it’s important to remember this when trying to manage your incontinence. Celebrate any small victories you achieve and recognise the progress you have made instead of focusing on the times things didn't go to plan. For example, here are some things you should take pride in when trying to manage your incontinence: ●     Incorporating a new habit ●     Reaching the toilet in time ●     Finding a new product that provides you with comfort and relief While these may all seem like relatively small achievements, it's the small things that matter the most. Every step you take in the right direction is worthy of celebrating. Be kind to yourself If something doesn’t work out how you imagined, or you experience incontinence, don't knock yourself down. Understand that setbacks can happen and that they don't define your incontinence journey. Instead, use these challenges as a learning experience to find new ways to grow from them moving forward. Treat yourself with compassion and you'll find that managing your incontinence will become much more achievable. Managing incontinence is all about making steady progress – not perfection. Establishing a bladder-friendly routine Since managing your incontinence is something you will be doing every day, establishing a bladder-friendly routine centred around your lifestyle can make a big difference. Here are some top tips to take on board when creating any New Year's resolutions based on developing this kind of routine: Stay aware of your water intake – being hydrated is vital for your health but it also plays a crucial role in managing incontinence. Try to evenly distribute your fluid intake throughout the day to enhance your bladder control.  Avoid certain drinks – some drinks can increase your risk of leaks or loss of bladder control, so actively avoiding them is key. Caffeine and alcohol are the two main culprits as they can both overstimulate the bladder.  Regular trips to the bathroom – try to establish a schedule of going to the bathroom to reduce your chances of unexpected leaks. It's also important to listen to your body's natural cues and always head to the bathroom when you notice them.  Take your night-time routine into account – many people with incontinence experience leaks or urgent urination at night. As such, try to limit your liquid intake before bed and always use the bathroom before trying to sleep. In doing so, this should help reduce your risk of any unexpected leaks. Navigating social events with confidence Social events are a big part of the New Year and the idea of dealing with incontinence while ringing in 2024 can seem quite daunting. However, there are several ways you can enjoy spending time with your friends and loved ones while keeping your incontinence in check. Here are some useful strategies to think about when trying to build self-assurance and resilience at social events over the New Year period. Planning ahead Whether you're the party planner or partygoer, planning ahead can make a big difference when managing your incontinence. To do this effectively, try to familiarise yourself with the bathrooms and the setting before attending so you can plan your bathroom breaks and know where to go in case any urgency strikes. If you’re visiting a new venue, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the location of the toilet. Choosing clothing carefully The New Year is the perfect time to get dressed up in your finest attire but it's important to consider how easy it is to pull down or take off if you need the bathroom urgently. It’s also important to consider how your clothing works with your incontinence product of choice. As a back-up option, you could also consider taking a spare change of clothes with you to any parties you attend. That way if you do experience leaks, you won’t need to head home early. Practice relaxation techniques Incontinence can cause anxiety and worry, especially in public settings. However, if you have methods of keeping calm when the panic sets in, you will be able to stay cool, calm and collected even if your worst-case scenario arises. Create an incontinence kit Before any social events, spend some time creating an incontinence care kit that includes items like wipes, spare incontinence products and extra underwear in case you need them. Knowing you have everything you need will allow you to easily navigate any New Year’s party without needing to worry about any accidents.Discover incontinence products with Attends Every step you take towards managing your incontinence this New Year is a testament to your resilience and strength. While it may not be an easy feat to achieve, by celebrating your progress at every step of the way and embracing our advice, you can stay in control of your incontinence. Take on 2024 with confidence and added support with the help of Attends. Our incontinence products provide you with the personal protection you need to keep you feeling secure and comfortable. Browse our range of incontinence products and start your New Year off with the support you need. Sources NHS - 10 Ways to Stop Leaks Mayo Clinic - Symptoms & Causes of Urinary Incontinence WebMD - Managing Urinary Incontinence

Amid the festive season’s hustle and bustle, many people opt for caffeinated drinks for a boost of much-needed energy. With cafes offering Christmas menus stacked with sweet coffees topped with whipped cream, it’s easier than ever to overdo it on caffeine. However, caffeine can pose a problem if you’re living with incontinence. In our latest blog post, we’re going to look closer at the connection between caffeine and incontinence, assessing whether switching to decaf is actually as easy as people say – and the possible benefits of doing so. What is caffeine? Before we delve into the effects caffeine has on incontinence, it’s important to understand exactly what caffeine is. Caffeine is a naturally occurring compound found in things like coffee, tea and various other plants. Caffeine acts as a stimulant, entering your bloodstream and travelling to your brain, where it blocks the neurotransmitters that make you feel tired. Having been used for centuries to improve alertness, caffeine has since morphed into modern-day coffees and teas we know and love. However, these tasty treats can come at a cost, with the effects of caffeine lasting up to five hours and taking even longer to leave your body completely. How does caffeine affect your bladder? Caffeine affects more than just your alertness, particularly if you experience bladder incontinence. Therefore, understanding the link between caffeine and your bladder is crucial to reducing any unwanted incontinence effects. Caffeine has diuretic properties which means it stimulates your urine production. When you drink anything caffeinated, the caffeine interferes with the reabsorption of water in your kidneys, causing more liquid to be released as urine. While this may not be of huge concern to some people, those dealing with incontinence may find that drinking tea or coffee negatively impacts their bladder control. Caffeine can also mildly irritate your bladder muscles, potentially exacerbating symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency. The caffeine stimulation in your bladder may even cause you to be more prone to spasms or contractions, increasing your risk of incontinence. So, while it may seem like a good idea to warm up with a festive gingerbread latté while out Christmas shopping, it could have some negative side effects if you have bladder incontinence. The benefits of drinking decaf The world of decaffeinated alternatives is a lot broader (and tastier) than it ever used to be. More and more coffee shops now offer decaf versions of their drinks and many people struggle to taste the difference. So, why not try it for yourself? Here are some of the benefits that drinking decaf this winter can offer: More gentle on your bladder – decaf drinks can provide you with the same warmth and flavour, just without the diuretic effects. Drinking decaf prevents the overstimulation of your bladder and stops the overproduction of urine, making it much easier to control your bladder.  Reduced irritation – decaffeinated drinks don’t have the same bladder-irritating properties so you will be much less likely to endure bladder spasms that lead to loss of control. Restful, dry nights – caffeine can disrupt your sleep and cause you to go to the toilet throughout the night. Switching to decaf can greatly reduce your risk of nighttime loss of bladder control – and you’ll also wake up feeling much more refreshed.  A balance of enjoyment and bladder health – the festive season is all about indulgence and spending time with loved ones. Choosing decaf allows you to enjoy your favourite Christmas drinks without compromising your bladder health. You will also feel much more confident during get-togethers if you make the switch to decaf, as your risk of incontinence will be decreased. Greater bladder control – by making the change to decaf, you can enjoy much greater control over your bladder, boosting your confidence over the winter months. Reduced risk of bladder urgency – opting for a decaf drink reduces your risk of bladder urgency, allowing you to stay present during family moments of festive joy. The ‘Taste The Difference Challenge’ The ‘Taste The Difference Challenge’ was launched by the UHL Continence Team in 2021, with the aim of promoting decaffeinated teas and coffees in healthcare settings to reduce the effects of incontinence. The idea behind the project came about when it was found that caffeinated drinks were routinely offered to hospital patients, increasing the rate of incontinence. However, since many staff were not aware of the impact caffeine was having, the challenge to switch towards decaffeinated drinks was born. During the challenge, over 50% of the 700 patients who accepted decaffeinated drinks could not taste the difference and over 76% said they would be happy to switch to decaf after discovering the benefits. The Taste The Difference challenge can be transferred to any hospital, community group or residential care home to try and reduce the effects of caffeine on incontinence. So, why not partake in your own Taste The Difference Challenge this festive season to see the benefits to your bladder?Discover incontinence products with Attends Caffeinated drinks might be a staple in your routine, but they could also be hindering your bladder health. Making the switch to decaf can be a great way to regain some control over your bladder and reduce your risk of potential accidents during the festive season and beyond. This Christmas, unwrap the joy of decaffeinated drinks and support your bladder health even further by choosing Attends for your incontinence needs. We offer a wide range of products for both men and women, providing you with multiple options to suit your needs. To find the right product for you, simply answer these six simple questions.   Discover our incontinence protection products and receive the bladder support you deserve.  Sources Leicester Hospitals - Taste The Difference Challenge Bladder & Bowel UK - Taste The Difference Challenge NHS - Urinary Incontinence, Best Ways to Stop Leaks

Urinary incontinence is a common issue faced by men and women alike, often requiring visits to the doctor for extra support. Many patients with incontinence avoid drinking fluids, as they feel like it causes additional problems. As a healthcare professional, it is important to advise on the type and amount of fluid which can help to reduce symptoms and maintain bladder function. Many drinks contain caffeine, or have artificial sweeteners, which can irritate the bladder. While they may be delicious, caffeinated drinks can be a contributing factor towards incontinence during the festive season. As Christmas draws closer and the party season begins, it’s important to remind your patients that beer, wine, spirits and other alcoholic beverages can act as a bladder stimulant, and ultimately lead to incontinence. Moderation in alcohol consumption plays a crucial role in maintaining bladder health. Throughout this blog, we thought we’d unwrap the connection between caffeine and incontinence while exploring some of the best ways to encourage your patients to switch to decaf. The link between caffeine and incontinence While you may already understand the effects of caffeine, not all of your patients will. However, there is a well-established direct link between increased incontinence and caffeine – a staple in many people's morning routines. Due to its strong diuretic properties, those with incontinence issues can struggle to improve their bladder health while consuming associated products such as tea and coffee. Caffeine stimulates your kidneys and causes them to produce more urine by reducing your water absorption. This leads to an increase in both urine urgency and frequency and, if patients are experiencing incontinence already, discomfort. Caffeine also causes spasms and contractions of the bladder, something which can increase the risk of incontinence. Studies have shown, for example, that a caffeine intake of more than or equal to 240 mg per day can elevate the chances of urinary incontinence. For context, one double espresso contains around 125 mg of caffeine, so consuming just two coffees a day is more than enough to impact bladder health.Using decaf as a preventative incontinence measure Decaffeinated options can act as a shield against the diuretic effects of caffeine, alleviating incontinence issues. As healthcare advocates, it’s important to encourage patients to put proactive measures in place, empowering them to make more mindful choices. Navigating coffee shop menus full of caffeinated drinks can be easy when patients know how – and why they should be doing so. Let them know of the effects caffeine can have on their bladder and inspire them to ask for a decaf version wherever possible.  The ‘Taste The Difference’ challenge Generally, patients are offered caffeinated tea and coffee during ‘drinks rounds’ – which we know can lead to a greater risk of bladder (and even bowel) incontinence. As such, the Taste The Difference challenge was set up as a project within hospitals to encourage patients to switch to decaf. Feedback was collected from patients during the challenge, asking not only whether they could taste the difference but also if they would consider switching to decaf after finding out the health benefits. The feedback showed over 50% of patients couldn't taste the difference and over 76% of them said they would switch to decaf after learning about the health benefits. This demonstrates that knowledge is the key to unlocking the switch to decaf. Benefits of decaf in patients with incontinence Switching to decaf can provide your patients with relief from urinary incontinence, making it a much more comfortable festive season. Some of the key benefits associated with switching to decaf include: Improved bladder control – without the diuretic effects of caffeine, patients can expect a reduction in urgency and frequency of urination. This gives them greater control over bladder function and can reduce stress during a sometimes stressful time of year.  Enhanced quality of sleep – getting enough sleep is vital, especially during the busy Christmas period. However, drinking caffeine can lead to more frequent urination or loss of bladder control during the night. Switching to decaf can stop disruptions during sleep and improve mental wellbeing.  Better hydration – drinking decaf helps patients maintain their fluid intake as it prevents the kidneys from over-producing urine. Being well hydrated can also prevent bladder irritation which can lead to incontinence.  Decaffeinated beverages have come a long way in recent years and many people aren't able to tell the difference. This means your patients can still enjoy their favourite flavours without compromising their bladder health.Encouraging patients to switch from caffeine to decaf Knowing the effects caffeine has on bladder health is not something everyone will know. Whether you work in the community or a hospital setting, educating patients with incontinence on the steps they can take can make all the difference. Some effective ways to help your patients make the switch to decaf include: ●      Provide advice on which products are available as decaffeinated ●      Empower them with the knowledge of decaf's benefits and how caffeine affects incontinence ●      Have leaflets they can take away with them so they can solidify their knowledge and share it with others ●      Be prepared for pushback from patients who are content with drinking caffeine – let them know the facts so they can make an informed decision ●      Have samples they could take home and try or signpost them to great decaf options in supermarkets ●      Advise patients that the shift can be gradual to reduce the side effects of caffeine withdrawal Side effects of quitting caffeine As well as highlighting the benefits, it's worthwhile letting your patients also know about some of the side effects of giving up caffeine altogether – especially if they drink it every day, multiple times a day. Some side effects of caffeine withdrawal can include: ●      Headaches ●      Fatigue ●      Low mood ●      Irritability ●      Feeling foggy However, these side effects tend to last only a few days as the body starts to withdraw from caffeine reliance. Discover incontinence products with Attends Drinking caffeine may be something most of your patients do every day, but providing them with support and information can help them make healthy choices for their bladder health. Here at Attends, we offer a wide range of incontinence products for both men and women, as well as discreet options for those wanting to feel secure while out Christmas shopping.    Discover the power of Attends incontinence products this festive season and help your patients manage their bladder health with ease. Sources Leicester Hospitals - Taste The Difference Challenge Bladder & Bowel UK - Taste The Difference Challenge NHS - Urinary Incontinence, Best Ways to Stop Leaks

Male incontinence is a common problem that can impact men of any age, potentially leading to feelings of embarrassment, anxiety and depression. With around one in three older men having incontinence problems, it is therefore essential for healthcare professionals to address this issue with confidence. Providing men with support for their urinary incontinence can have a hugely positive impact on their lives and well-being. As a healthcare professional, you can become a beacon of knowledge and advice on the topic, helping men manage their condition and restore their confidence levels once again. Understanding male incontinence Male incontinence, or loss of bladder control, can occur for several reasons, the main ones being due to age and injury. It is important to understand the symptoms of urinary incontinence so you can provide support. The most common symptoms are: ●     Needing to pee often, both day and night ●     Having trouble starting your urine flow ●     A weak urine stream ●     Straining (using stomach muscles) when urinating ●     Feeling like your bladder is never all the way empty, even after you go ●     Discomfort when urinating ●     Pressure in your lower abdomen While male incontinence often occurs as a result of ageing, it can also be caused by other factors. A medical assessment will help when planning treatment. Some of the factors that can cause urinary incontinence in men can include: ●     Urinary tract infections ●     Medication –  for example, diuretic medications can increase the risk of urine leakage ●     An enlarged prostate can obstruct urine from passing ●     Being overweight puts extra pressure on abdominal and pelvic muscles, making it harder to avoid urine leakage ●     Diabetes can cause nerve damage to your urinary tract, causing bladder problems ●     Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis ●     Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's ●     Arthritis can also cause functional incontinence as it can make going to the bathroom much more difficult There are also different types of urinary incontinence that a man can experience. The five main types are: Stress incontinence – where urine leaks out due to pressure being put on the bladder through actions like sneezing, laughing, exercising or heavy lifting Urge incontinence – feeling a sudden urge to urinate and involuntarily losing bladder control Overflow incontinence – regular or constant leaking of urine due to a bladder that doesn’t empty fully when urinating Functional incontinence –  caused by a physical or mental impairment that prevents you from reaching the toilet in time Mixed incontinence – where you experience more than one type of incontinence at the same time, such as stress and urge As the body ages, bladder control weakens and its capacity to store urine decreases. Therefore, ageing is often the main cause of male incontinence. Dealing with incontinence every day can be physically and mentally challenging. Not only does it cause temporary discomfort, but it can also lead to prolonged feelings of anxiety or low mood. Over time, male incontinence can have a devastating effect on a man’s quality of life.  Breaking the stigma – men’s mental health and incontinence Unfortunately, there is still a lot of stigma around male incontinence. That’s why it’s so important for you as a healthcare professional to understand and address it. Many men feel embarrassed or don’t want to talk about their emotions when dealing with incontinence. However, letting men express how their incontinence is making them feel and affecting their daily lives can be one of the first steps towards breaking the stigma. Normalising male incontinence products is also a brilliant way to break the stigma. Letting them know there is no shame in using them can go a long way. In general, men’s mental health is often overlooked — which is why movements such as Movember have come about. This annual event encourages men to grow moustaches throughout November to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as mental health, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. While proving mental health support should happen year-round, Movember is a good reminder that it’s vital for healthcare professionals to know how to help and where to signpost it.   Movember and men’s mental health As a significant fundraiser and awareness campaign for men’s health, Movember helps bring the problems men face into the public consciousness. It shows them that there’s nothing to be ashamed of when dealing with health problems — whether physical or emotional. Addressing male incontinence ties into the broader scope of men’s overall health. Dealing with incontinence can lead to poor mental health and this can be debilitating. By showing male incontinence is a common issue that can be effectively managed, you can help your patients grow in confidence and lead happier, healthier lives. Seeking professional help Seeking professional help for male incontinence is important as it ensures a proper diagnosis and support with different treatment options. Knowing there is an open line of communication between patients and healthcare professionals can make all the difference. Men need to know they can speak with their healthcare professional about anything — including urinary incontinence. Keeping these lines of communication open and in confidence ensures security and honest conversations.   Insights and management techniques Managing male incontinence in a clinical setting is vital within your role as a healthcare professional. Understanding the underlying cause of their incontinence means men receive the right treatment and product advice. Simple lifestyle changes can help. These can include: ●     Maintaining a healthy weight ●     Reduce caffeine, limit alcohol and carbonated drinks ●     Cut down on smoking – excessive coughing can put additional pressure on the bladder ●     Bladder retraining – to modify your bladder’s behaviour by scheduling bathroom trips at set times throughout the day ●     Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles Educating your patients is also a great way to help them effectively manage their incontinence. Many men may not know why they are experiencing incontinence, so discussing the different causes and the variety of incontinence products available can help them feel empowered. If incontinence products are a part of your management plan, we offer male incontinence products such as protective shields, pads and all-in-one briefs. At Attends, we offer a wide range of male urinary incontinence products to give back the confidence and dignity men deserve.  Some of our male incontinence products include: ●     Attends For Men Protective Shield ●     Attends For Men Protective Pad ●     All-In-One Briefs ●     Fixation Pants ●     Underpads Our products are designed to comfortably fit the contours of the body and provide absorption and protection. Discover our range of male incontinence products. Support and resources Being able to signpost your patients to the right resources can make a huge difference when they are dealing with incontinence. Some useful support and resources for male incontinence include: ●     Age UK ●     Bladder & Bowel UK ●     Bladder Health UK ●     Men’s Health Forum Having a strong network of support is priceless so encouraging men to connect with other men facing the same issues can be a big help when trying to understand male incontinence. Reaching out to places like Bladder & Bowel UK, or chatting with other men on Men’s Health Forum, can help them learn how to manage the condition, as well as talk freely about what they are experiencing. While male incontinence is affecting more men each year, by teaching men to take proactive steps towards seeking help, you can provide them with the support they need. Encouraging them to take part or support other men taking part in Movember can also be a good way to get involved and help end the stigma around incontinence.   Explore our complete range of continence products designed especially for men. Sources ●     Web MD - What Is Urinary Incontinence? ●     Web MD - Treatments for Urinary Incontinence ●     Practice Nursing - Urinary Incontinence, What You Need To Know

Loss of bladder control, or urinary incontinence, affects over half of all men in the UK. While the condition can feel embarrassing and affect your daily life, it is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, please seek medical advice: ●     Needing to pee often, both day and night ●     Have trouble starting your urine flow ●     A weak urine stream ●     Straining (using stomach muscles) when urinating ●     Feeling like your bladder is never all the way empty, even after you go ●     Discomfort when urinating ●     Pressure in your lower abdomen If male incontinence products are a part of your management plan, choosing the right type of product is crucial, especially when trying to provide the dignity and comfort you deserve. Understanding male incontinence While male incontinence often occurs as a result of ageing, it can also be caused by other factors such as: ●     Urinary tract infections ●     Medication, for example, diuretic medications can increase the risk of urine leakage ●     An enlarged prostate can obstruct urine from passing ●     Being overweight puts extra pressure on abdominal and pelvic muscles, which makes it harder to avoid urine leakage ●     Diabetes can cause nerve damage to your urinary tract, causing bladder problems ●     Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis ●     Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s) There are also several types of male incontinence: Stress incontinence – where urine leaks out when pressure is applied to your bladder through activities like coughing, laughing, sneezing, exercising or lifting something heavy. Urge incontinence – this causes a sudden urge to urinate and a subsequent involuntary release of your bladder. With urge incontinence, you may need to urinate more often, particularly at night, due to having an infection, diabetes or a neurological disorder. Overflow incontinence – if your bladder doesn’t empty completely when you urinate, you can experience overflow incontinence. This is where small amounts of urine are involuntarily released on a regular basis.  Functional incontinence – with this type of incontinence, a physical or mental impairment prevents you from reaching the bathroom in time to urinate. An example of this is if you have arthritis and struggle to unbutton your trousers in time.  Mixed incontinence – this is where you experience more than one type of incontinence, such as a combination of stress and urge incontinence. It is important to seek help and discuss your incontinence with a healthcare professional. Taking the first step can be liberating to both your well-being and mental health.Movember: addressing men’s incontinence and mental health challenges Movember is a significant time of the year that highlights the importance of addressing men’s mental and physical health challenges. During November, participants are encouraged to grow moustaches to raise awareness of the health problems men face such as prostate cancer and to highlight men’s mental health. Their goal is to change the face of men’s mental health and encourage early cancer detection and treatment. Male incontinence can have a drastic effect on your mental health, leaving you feeling not only embarrassed but also potentially anxious and depressed. However, with the right incontinence products, you can enhance your overall sense of well-being. While the negative emotions you experience with incontinence may be perfectly valid, they can be reduced with the right support and products. The importance of a tailored approach to incontinence Some simple lifestyle changes can help improve urinary incontinence symptoms in some people. These changes can include: Fluid intake - reduce your carbonated, caffeinated and alcoholic drink intake as these can irritate the bladder. By reducing your consumption and drinking more water, you may be able to regain some control over your bladder once again. Be sure to check the colour of your urine (it should be a pale straw colour). Pelvic floor muscle exercises - a healthcare professional will explain how to carry out these exercises. Medications Other treatments are available, and your GP can advise on these treatments. Each person’s experience with incontinence is unique, which also means your needs are going to be personal to you. Therefore, understanding what your unique needs are can be particularly beneficial when choosing the right incontinence products. With so many incontinence products available for men, knowing which one will work best for you is crucial. For example, it’s important to ensure you choose a product that aligns with your level of incontinence. Some of them are more absorbent than others, so you need to understand your needs and the product fully before purchasing. Our product types and options Attends For Men offers you a dignified, tailored approach to urinary incontinence. We understand everyone’s needs are different, so we provide a wide range of products to meet them. All of our products are 100% breathable and offer odour protection to keep you feeling confident all day. Attends For Men 1 & 2 Protective Shields Our Protective Shields are for light bladder weakness and offer you a discreet way of preserving your dignity and keeping dampness and odours away. Attends Men 2 & 3 Protective Absorbent Shields Our Protective Absorbent Shields are for light-to-moderate incontinence. The shields are narrow in shape and use foam elastics for a secure fit. They also combine an Active Zone with Quick–Dry technology to promote rapid urine absorption and dryness. Attends For Men 3 & 4 Protective Pads If you have moderate urinary incontinence, then our Protective Pads may be right for you. These have protective leakage barriers and a wider front for complete protection. Attends Pull-Ons As well as pads and shields, we also offer pull-ons. These are a discreet option if you experience light to moderate incontinence. Our pull-ons fit closely to your body, making them discreet underneath your clothes. Attends Flex Attends Flex are belted briefs that can be used to manage heavy incontinence. The belt can be adjusted to fit comfortably across your body and an absorbent pad is fitted to reduce the risk of leakage. All-in-one briefs Our all-in-one briefs are suitable for heavy incontinence and come with adjustable tabs to provide the perfect fit. The super absorbent core ensures you stay dry and protected. All-in-one briefs are ideal if you are lying or sitting down for extended periods and are easy to change. Attends fixation pants The fixation pants are available in four different designs — Attends Stretch Pants Regular, Attends Stretch Pants, Attends Stretch Pants Comfort and Attends Stretch Fit Pants. These are designed to be used alongside the Attends-shaped pads to provide you with maximum comfort and dryness. Attends Cover-Dri The Attends Cover-Dri underpads can be used as an extra layer of protection when dealing with light to moderate incontinence. Their non-slip backing and soft top sheet make these the perfect addition when sitting or lying down. Dignity, comfort and confidence Choosing the right incontinence product can take a little research and a detailed understanding of what your needs are. Here are some key questions to consider when choosing incontinence products: ●     What level of absorbency do you need? – these can include light, moderate or heavy ●     Which type of fit do you prefer? – all-in-one briefs, belted briefs and protective shields all fit differently ●     How do you plan on using or putting the products on? – can you easily fit them on yourself or do you need assistance? ●     How many products do you need in a pack? – if you need them every day, then buying in bulk can be more effective You will also need to consider your current mobility. If you are unable to use the bathroom on your own, opting for an easy-to-fit product could work better. Your lifestyle also plays an important factor when deciding which incontinence product is best for you. Therefore, if you engage in sports or exercise regularly, you will need to think about which option provides you with the most protection and will be easy to swap out if needed. Similarly, if you spend more time sitting or lying down, you may benefit more from underpads or all-in-ones.    The right incontinence product for you will provide dignity and confidence while keeping you dry and comfortable. Support and resources Here are some useful resources and support services to help you understand and manage your incontinence. ●     Bladder & Bowel UK – provides a wealth of information and a national, confidential helpline. ●     Bladder Health UK – a UK-based charity that provides information and support for incontinence and other bladder problems. ●     Men’s Health Forum – a registered charity aiming to provide men and boys with information and support on their health. ●     Age UK – can offer information and advice on different health conditions as you age, including incontinence. You don’t have to struggle on your own. There are lots of other men out there who are going through the same thing and it can be comforting to seek out each other’s support. Don’t be afraid to reach out and find your own community that can help you learn more about your condition and support you. Being proactive when dealing with urinary incontinence is the best way to avoid embarrassment and keep your dignity intact. Attends offers many different male urinary incontinence products to help you feel secure and confident in your daily life.   Explore our complete range of continence products designed especially for men. Sources ●     Mayo Clinic - Urinary Incontinence ●     Web MD - What Is Urinary Incontinence? ●     Web MD - Treating & Managing Urinary Incontinence in Men

If you have developed urinary incontinence (involuntary bladder leaks) during the menopause, you are not alone. Approximately 50% of adult women experience this problem, with many finding it an upsetting subject to talk about, or mistakenly believing it is an inevitable part of the ageing process. In this blog, you’ll discover some of the key reasons behind menopause and urinary incontinence, including its various associated symptoms and what you can do to manage it.Understanding menopause Perimenopause (the transition to menopause) and menopause describe a time of change in women’s bodies. These changes happen around your mid-40s – but can be earlier – as your ovaries produce less of the hormone oestrogen. Menopause officially begins after you’ve had no periods for 12 months. However, many women experience menopausal symptoms during perimenopause, including mood changes and night sweats. Bladder leaks are another sign, as the drop in oestrogen levels can affect your pelvic floor and its ability to support your bladder and urethra (the tube passing urine). The umbrella term for menopausal symptoms related to low oestrogen levels is genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). The link between menopause and urinary incontinence Menopause and urinary incontinence are associated with one another due to the drop in oestrogen levels causing the urethra’s lining to thin and weaken the pelvic floor. As the pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, bowel and womb, this loss of strength increases the likelihood of bladder leaks and makes it harder to control urination. For example, you might lose bladder control when you laugh or cough. Additionally, you might find it difficult to avoid a few drops leaking out before you reach the toilet.Types of urinary incontinence The menopause can trigger several types of urinary incontinence. Detailed below are some of the most common. Stress Incontinence If you leak a small amount when you laugh, cough, sneeze, jump or lift a heavy object, this is likely to be stress incontinence. Stress incontinence is a common but not inevitable result of ageing, where the weakened pelvic floor muscles can’t pull in as tightly as they used to and the urethra can’t stay shut. As a result, this increases pressure on the bladder and makes it more difficult to prevent urinary leakages. Urge Incontinence Also known as an overactive bladder, urge incontinence is when you suddenly need to urinate and know you might not get to the toilet in time. You may also need to urinate more frequently, even in situations where you have emptied your bladder. Mixed Incontinence Mixed incontinence is where you have symptoms of both stress and urge incontinence. You may also have an increased tendency to wake up during the night in desperate need of the toilet – this is referred to as nocturia. The principal aim of managing urinary incontinence during menopause is to improve bladder control. This can be done in a number of different ways. Dietary changes Caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic drinks can all irritate your bladder. Therefore, avoiding these and increasing your water intake could help reduce the pressure on your bladder and urethra. Being overweight can also put increased pressure on your bladder, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight by eating well and exercising regularly. Lifestyle Factors Avoiding the use of irritants, such as scented soaps and tight clothes, within the delicate area around your vagina can help minimise risk of infection. Since vaginal/vulval dryness (another menopausal symptom) can easily irritate the urethra,  washing this area with a pH-balanced cleanser instead could help prevent future flare-ups. Pelvic Floor Exercises Pelvic floor exercises are exercises that target and strengthen the muscles supporting your bladder. These should be taught to you by a healthcare professional. Continence specialists recommend pulling in and squeezing the pelvic floor muscles and holding for 3 – 10 seconds up to 10 times, letting go between each squeeze. Aim for three to four sets of these exercises per day. Medical Interventions & Treatments If your urinary incontinence starts to impact your quality of life, you should make an appointment to see your GP. They may prescribe you treatments like: Vaginal Oestrogen Vaginal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) relieves dryness or irritation by restoring moisture and elasticity and improving stress or urge continence.  Systemic HRT HRT can be provided as a tablet or gel with or without vaginal oestrogen. Including testosterone may strengthen your pelvic floor and improve symptoms. Physiotherapy A trained physiotherapist or local continence specialist can show you how to exercise your pelvic floor correctly.  Electrical Stimulation If you can’t complete the contractions, a specialist can insert a tiny probe into the vagina to electrically stimulate and strengthen your pelvic floor while you exercise.  Medicines Your GP may prescribe medication for urge incontinence if other treatments haven’t worked. Incontinence Products You can manage your condition using pads or products to absorb the urine, while undergoing management/treatment plans.Incontinence products for menopausal women The first thing to consider when dealing with urinary incontinence is which type of product is right for you. This will vary depending on the extent of your menopause and urinary incontinence: ●  Light – for when you lose a few drops of urine and have an occasional spurt  ●  Moderate – where you get spurts or gushes of urine 24/7 and can’t always reach the toilet in time but may urgently need to go ●  Heavy – when you pass large amounts of urine day and night, do not reach the loo promptly and have no bladder control. Our online product selector tool allows you to choose your incontinence level and activeness – active, limited or immobile – and measure your body’s circumference (confection size). The selector will help you pick the right incontinence products for menopausal women, including pads, shaped pads, pants, belted briefs, all-in-one briefs, fixation pants and underpads and their absorbency level. For example, it offers an active woman with medium confection size the following: ●  Attends Soft 1 Mini Long, Soft 2 Normal and Soft 3+ Extra Plus – ideal for relatively light urine leaks. ●  Attends Cover-Dri Plus underpads for light urinary incontinence. ●  Attends Contours Air Comfort 5, Attends Pull-Ons 6M, or Attends Soft 4 Super for moderate incontinence. ●  Attends Contours Regular 9 and Attends Contours Air Comfort 8 shaped pads (with Attends fixation pants) for heavy bladder leaks with no control. Embracing a positive lifestyle Urinary incontinence can negatively affect women’s physical and mental wellbeing due to the impact it can have on performing everyday activities, body image and self-confidence. Therefore, looking after yourself and remaining positive is essential. Start by contacting your healthcare professional, whose diagnosis will confirm whether menopause is the cause of your bladder incontinence. They will also be able to advise you on the right types of treatments – you might need to try a few solutions before finding the one that relieves your symptoms. Menopause and urinary incontinence don’t need to define your way of life.  For more information, continue your research by reading up on the NHS’s overview of menopause. You can also check out the Menopause Explained webinar by The Menopause Charity for an in-depth explanation of menopause treatments.  Here at Attends, we provide dedicated support through our bespoke solutions. Explore our complete range of products specifically designed to help manage urinary incontinence effectively. References NHS Conditions - Menopause Balance Menopause - Are You Ignoring The Symptoms? Continence Foundation of Australia - Urge Incontinence NHS Conditions - Treatment Options National Library of Medicine - Review of GSM

Urinary incontinence is a common menopausal symptom that can impact a woman’s physical and mental wellbeing. However, many women are too embarrassed to discuss this sensitive topic with their healthcare professional, mistakenly believing it to be a natural part of the ageing process and simply enduring the distress it causes. It’s important that as healthcare professionals, you encourage women to share their concerns and be proactive about their pelvic health during this natural transition in life. This blog will help you better understand the relationship between menopause and urinary incontinence, its causes, how to support women and provide the best treatments.Types of urinary incontinence in menopausal women There are three types of urinary incontinence that typically affect menopausal women: Stress Incontinence Falling oestrogen levels during perimenopause thin the urethra and weaken the pelvic floor muscles, triggering tiny bladder leaks that can occur when a woman coughs, laughs, sneezes or lifts a heavy item. Urge Incontinence (Overactive Bladder) A sudden urge to urinate that occurs on a frequent basis throughout the day. Mixed Incontinence A combination of urinary incontinence symptoms and urge incontinence.Risk factors for urinary incontinence in menopause Menopause and urinary incontinence are closely intertwined, with declining oestrogen levels during menopause having a significant impact on the pelvic muscles and tissues that support the bladder. Understanding the risk factors associated with these conditions is vital for both diagnosis and comprehensive care. Below, we delve into the key risk factors for both menopause-related urinary incontinence and its broader implications. Menopause-related urinary incontinence Hormonal Changes – menopause, characterised by declining oestrogen levels, contributes to the weakening of the pelvic muscles and supporting tissues. This structural shift can disrupt bladder control and lead to urinary incontinence. Ageing – while urinary incontinence becomes more prevalent with age, it is important to note that it is not an inevitable consequence of growing older. Postmenopausal women are approximately 50% more likely to experience urinary incontinence, often a primary symptom of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) GSM is a comprehensive condition encompassing various symptoms beyond urinary incontinence. These can include: ●     Vaginal dryness ●     Decreased libido ●     Bladder issues during intercourse Diagnosis considerations When diagnosing women with menopause-related urinary incontinence, it's important to adopt a holistic approach by considering a number of potential contributory factors. These could include: ●     Number of pregnancies ●     Birthing trauma ●     Hormonal disorders ●     Obesity ●     Chronic constipation ●     Diseases that cause nerve damage, e.g. Parkinson’s disease ●     Certain drugs like diuretics ●     Previous operations The psychological and emotional impact of menopausal incontinence  Living with urinary incontinence during menopause can affect a woman’s physical and mental wellbeing – from impacting their sex life to causing anxiety and a lack of confidence when going out. Healthcare professionals can address these concerns by positively approaching urinary incontinence and encouraging women to discuss their symptoms.Early intervention and strategies for managing incontinence during menopause Although menopause and urinary incontinence remain taboo, early intervention is vital, as genitourinary syndrome of menopause can worsen over time. One of the principal steps women can take to reduce the risk of developing incontinence both during and after menopause is by performing pelvic floor exercises for at least three months. These should be practised even if women do not have incontinence symptoms, including at times like pregnancy and childbirth. Strategies for maintaining overall pelvic health include pelvic floor exercises and low-impact activities such as pilates. Healthcare professionals can also offer women practical tips to help manage incontinence during menopause. This could include the following behaviour changes: Eat Well Losing weight can help. Studies suggest a 5% weight loss reduces symptoms in obese patients. Eating more fibre can also prevent constipation, which can cause urinary incontinence, while avoiding spicy and acidic foods that irritate the bladder may help as well. Drinks A reduced consumption of caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic drinks can help alleviate bladder irritation. Drinking 6 – 8 glasses of water per day can increase the overall capacity of the bladder. Exercise High-impact sports like running should be avoided due to the pressure they can put on the pelvic floor. If pelvic floor exercises are carried out regularly, high-impact sports can be reintroduced. Other preventative measures could include stopping smoking (coughing puts pressure on the bladder), tightening the pelvic floor when lifting objects and keeping hydrated to avoid constipation. Medical interventions and treatments  There are a wide variety of medical treatments available to treat menopausal incontinence. These include: Oestrogen Pessaries A local topical treatment inserted in the vagina to enhance skin elasticity. Recent research has shown that these can be especially beneficial in reducing or eliminating stress incontinence and supporting the urethra. Medications Antimuscarinics can calm overactive bladders, mirabegron can help the bladder relax and fill, and duloxetine can keep the urethra closed. Electrical Stimulation Used in physiotherapy to train the pelvic floor muscle by placing a small probe inside the vagina. Biofeedback Training Provides feedback on how well a patient is performing pelvic floor exercises. Bladder Training Teaches women to regain control by scheduling toilet trips and waiting longer between bathroom visits. Pelvic Floor Exercises Also known as Kegel exercises, this effective method of regaining bladder control involves squeezing and relaxing muscles in the pelvic region to strengthen them. Surgery Used as a last resort after other therapies, surgical treatments include colposuspension, sling surgery and vaginal mesh surgery. Incontinence Products These items are beneficial while awaiting diagnosis or during treatment to help promote dignity. There are a variety of products to choose from to suit individual needs, including pads and pull-up pants. All women experience symptoms of the menopause and urinary incontinence is a common symptom. However, healthcare professionals can encourage women to share their concerns and be proactive about their pelvic health during this natural transition in life. If necessary, make referrals to the appropriate healthcare professional, whether physio, GPs or urogynaecological consultants, to ensure effective management and treatment. Explore our range of continence products designed to help women manage urinary incontinence, and learn why it’s vital to ensure the correct level of absorbency. References National Library of Medicine - Urinary Incontinence in Postmenopausal Women North American Menopause Society - Urinary Incontinence Web MD - Menopause & Bladder Control Management Healthline - Menopause & Urinary Incontinence National Library of Medicine - Effectiveness of Hormones in Postmenopausal Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Kegel 8 - Is HRT Making Your Menopause Worse? NHS - Surgery & Procedures for Urinary Incontinence NHS - 10 Ways to Stop Leaks Up To Date - Urinary Incontinence Treatments for Women

Experience superior quality and feel confidently protected with Attends Men – specially developed for the male anatomy. Our new range ensures you remain in control, providing safety and comfort throughout the day and night. Attends Men are dermatologically approved by SGS proderm, meaning they are friendly towards your skin. With experience spanning 45 years in the field of incontinence protection, we understand the importance of feeling safe and comfortable in your everyday life. You can depend on Attends and our tested product range to deliver the highest level of assurance and support. Whatever your specific needs, we are able to help you find the best product for your individual needs.Attends incontinence products for men – safe and sustainable Our complete men´s range is available in different product shapes, sizes and absorbency levels, whilst being specially developed to ensure a safe and comfortable fit. We have extended our male product range with the addition of two new products – Attends Men 2 Protective Absorbent Shield and Attends Men 3 Protective Absorbent Shield, featuring a narrow shape and foam elastics for a secure fit.Our male product range includes: Attends For Men 1 & 2 Protective Shields: For light bladder weakness (dribbles). They are thin, discreet and provide a comfortable fit. NEW – Attends Men 2 & 3 Protective Absorbent Shields: For light to moderate bladder weakness, featuring a narrow shape and foam elastics for a secure fit. The Active Zone and Quick-Dry technology provide rapid absorption of liquid and dryness. Attends For Men 3 & 4 Protective Pads: For moderate bladder weakness with leakage barriers and a wider front for extra protection. Learn moreSkin friendly and breathable for a comfortable fit and feelOur entire male product range is manufactured utilising breathable materials which benefits your skin health. The super absorbent core quickly locks in any liquid and helps to prevent odour. Product features: 100% breathable Odour protection keeps you safe from unpleasant smells Skin tolerability is dermatologically approved by SGS proderm Institute for Applied Dermatological Research Most of the Attends male products are certified according to OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 as being harmless for human heath Together we take responsibility for our planetWe prioritise environmental compatibility and uphold social production standards for all materials, production processes and packaging used in our men’s range. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that each product is manufactured with utmost care for the environment and adheres to ethical production practices, allowing you to make a positive impact when choosing Attends products. Climate neutral site: Our plant in Sweden is certified climate neutral (Attends For Men 1 and 2, Attends Men 2 and 3). Attends Men 2 and 3 and Attends For Men3 and 4 products have achieved the certification of the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. The cellulose within our products originates from PEFC-certified, sustainability managed forests and controlled sources (Attends Men 2 and 3).  The plastic bags are made with min. 30% recycled material. Boxes are made from 100% recyclable material. Learn moreFor additional support regarding incontinence, seek medical advice from your GP and local continence service. They will be able to advise on management and treatment plans. To learn more about our complete range of continence products, please click here. Alternatively, our dedicated customer services team are available Mon - Fri, from 8.30am - 5pm for personalised advice. Call the team on 01924 669260 today!

Whether you work in the community or a hospital setting, managing incontinence in patients with Alzheimer's requires personalised care and sensitivity. This blog explains how healthcare professionals (HCPs) can promote best practices for incontinence management in Alzheimer's patients, who can feel anxious, frustrated and fearful without the correct support.Understanding incontinence in Alzheimer's Individuals   Urinary, faecal or double incontinence are common as Alzheimer’s disease progresses, although it is not an inevitable part of the condition. Communication between healthcare providers and the patient is one of the prime challenges in managing incontinence. The person living with Alzheimer’s may be unable to tell you they need the toilet, can’t reach it in time, or forget how to use it. Best Practices for Incontinence Management These evidence-based strategies can help you to manage incontinence in patients with Alzheimer’s.  Nutrition and fluids A balanced diet and exercise help prevent constipation. Encourage fluids, as limiting fluids could cause dehydration, which could lead to a urinary tract infection and increased incontinence. Keep to a routine Maintaining a routine for toilet use can help to avoid accident. Hygiene Ensure the skin is kept clean and dry. Check skin regularly to ensure that there isn’t excessive exposure to urine and faeces, as this may cause skin damage.  Continence products When selected/used appropriately, continence products can help maintain dignity and prevent the discomfort of fluid soaking into clothing or bedding. Medications Medications can affect incontinence — for example, diuretics or sleeping tablets and so on. It is important to review these.Maintaining Patient Dignity and Comfort Creating a supportive environment will help you to manage incontinence in Alzheimer’s patients, preserve their dignity and comfort, and reduce the likelihood of distress.  Simple design changes like these create a dementia-friendly environment: Colours – Painting the bathroom in a contrasting colour helps people identify it.  Light – Adding a night light shows a clear path to the toilet. You can also keep the doors ajar for easy access. Materials – Avoid busy patterns, which patients can misinterpret as a hole or someone jumping at them, making them feel agitated. Signage – Putting a picture of a toilet on the bathroom door (at head height) will make it more visible. Practical Adjustments – Handrails, raised toilets, and commodes make toilet use easier. Patients can recognise a lever more than a modern push button. Avoid Mirrors – reflections can be distracting if a person does not recognise their reflection. They may think that there is a stranger in the bathroom. Effective Communication Healthcare providers and caregivers must adapt to patients’ loss of communication skills as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.  Look for nonverbal cues that show the patient needs to use the toilet, such as hiding, silence, fidgeting and pacing. Use matter-of-fact language (not baby talk) to alleviate embarrassment and prevent agitation from escalating. Make a note of trigger phrases Alzheimer’s patients with incontinence use when wanting the bathroom, even if the words do not make sense to you, for example: ‘I need to go out’. Personalised Care Plans Respect the need for privacy as much as possible. When managing incontinence in Alzheimer’s patients, HCPs should personalise care plans to consider the person’s needs. It’s vital to be flexible and update the plan continually as the disease’s progression changes.  Ensure Alzheimer’s patients have a continence assessment, with referral to a Continence Specialist Nurse and Alzheimer’s specialist for additional support.Hygiene and Skin Care Keep wipes, sanitiser, continence products, disposable gloves and a disposal bin close to hand to maintain proper hygiene and skin care.  Learn how to prevent Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD). Continence Products The type of continence products you need will depend on the individual’s type and level of incontinence, and the individual’s ability. For example, if the individual is passing small amounts of urine, or a dribble, a smaller product may be beneficial rather than a larger product which may cause distress to the individual. When it comes to selecting an all-in-one product, it is important to select the correct size. Please measure the individual’s waist and hips and use the larger of the two sizes to select a product size. If a product is too large, it increases the risk of leakage. You can use our product finder tool to find the most suitable type of product and absorbency level. We have nine categories at Attends, providing all-round comfort, leakage protection and odour protection. Shields for men – these incontinence pads protect against light to moderate urine leaks. Pads for women and men - can be worn day or night for light to heavy urinary incontinence.They are breathable and soft for sensitive skin. Night pads are also available for extra protection. Shaped pads – these easy-to-fit anatomically shaped unisex products are for urine and faecal leaks. Pull-up pants – our unisex Pull-Ons are disposable pants for light to moderate bladder weakness. Belted briefs – we designed the Attends Flex range to manage heavy incontinence. All-in-one – these briefs are for managing heavy incontinence in men and women. Fixation pants – used with Attends shaped pads; the Fixation range includes 6 sizes from small to XXXL. Underpads – the Cover-Dri range provides an extra layer of security and comes in different shapes/sizes to suit different needs. Other products – we produce various products for HCPs and caregivers, including bibs, cleansing gloves and dry cleansing wipes. Collaboration with Caregivers and Families If an individual has Alzheimer’s, incontinence can have a profound impact on the person and their families who may be scared about someone else handling their care.  Involving the family carer in the management plan can help to alleviate their worries. It’s also an opportunity for the HCP to learn about the patient’s likes and dislikes, so they can personalise the care plan. Education, resources and support for caregivers are available from the charity Social Care Institute for Excellence, the Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK.   Alzheimer’s patients require a comprehensive and compassionate approach from healthcare professionals when managing incontinence. We can do this by listening to them and their families, maintaining patients’ dignity, tailoring strategies and approaches to individual needs, creating a safe environment, maintaining hygiene, and using the correct continence products.  Explore our complete range of continence products that promote patient comfort and dignity. Sources Alzheimer's Association - Daily Care Alzheimer's Society - Toilet Problems, Continence & Dementia Bladder & Bowel Community Very Well Health - Urinary & Faecal Incontinence in Dementia Social Care Institute for Excellence - Dementia at a Glance Social Care Institute for Excellence - Dementia Friendly Environments Alzheimer's Association - Care Planning Alzheimer's Association - Cognitive Impairment Care Planning Tool Kit

If an individual suffers from Alzheimer’s, incontinence can have a severe emotional toll, affecting their quality of life and wellbeing if not approached sensitively. In this blog, you’ll learn about managing incontinence with support and dignity to help reduce its impact on the person living with Alzheimer’s – and you as a caregiver.Understanding incontinence in individuals suffering with Alzheimer’s Incontinence is the involuntary loss of bowel or bladder control or both, and often happens in Alzheimer’s as the condition deteriorates in the mid to late stages. It’s important to note that incontinence is not an inevitable part of the condition if managed correctly. Making small changes to medication or lifestyle can delay or prevent incontinence, or at least help to manage it better. Some of the reasons for incontinence in Alzheimer’s patients include: Memory, reasoning and language – people with Alzheimer’s may forget where the toilet is or cannot tell you they need to go. Age-related problems – the average age of people with dementia in the UK is 65 and over. Reduced mobility and lack of coordination can prevent them from quickly reaching the toilet or removing their underwear. Underlying issues – medications and medical conditions such as constipation and urinary tract infections can cause incontinence.Recognising the emotional impact of incontinence Urine or faecal incontinence is an indignity that can leave people with Alzheimer’s feeling distressed, embarrassed, anxious and fearful of further accidents. They may be unable to express their need to go to the toilet, which can escalate from frustration to agitation and aggression. Creating a supportive and empathetic environment helps to provide dignified care for the individual and means less distress for you. Studies show that a personalised continence care plan that considers the person’s needs can reduce accidents and enhance their dignity. To help a person living with Alzheimer’s, it’s important to understand: ●     The person’s needs, understanding, likes and dislikes. ●     Their mobility function. Can the individual go to the toilet? Do they know what a toilet looks like? Would the use of aids assist in going to the toilet? ●     Diet and fluids – a balanced diet and exercise can help to prevent constipation. ●     Encourage fluids as limiting them could cause dehydration, which could lead to a UTI and increased incontinence. ●     Environment, e.g. signposting to the toilet, removing mirrors (especially in bathrooms) and patterns which may cause disorientation. Challenges faced by caregivers and patients Alzheimer’s robs people of their mental capacity and practical abilities, which profoundly affects them and their caregivers. As the symptoms worsen, it’s challenging to know what to do. Incontinence can cause feelings of shame, so it’s crucial to talk sensitively with the patient: ●     Use careful language – avoid words like ‘toileting’, which feels impersonal. A matter-of-fact manner can alleviate embarrassment and keep things calm. ●     Look for cues – signs that the patient needs the loo may be nonverbal, including hiding, fidgeting, or being silent. ●     Learn their trigger phrases – the person may use personal expressions like ‘I need to go out’ or ‘I can’t find the light switch’ when they want the toilet.Strategies for effective incontinence management Developing a routine will help to manage incontinence in Alzheimer’s patients effectively. ●     Create prompts – set an automatic reminder to encourage the person to go to the toilet every two hours and check whether their pad needs changing. ●     Note patterns of behaviour – learn the patient’s habits and anticipate when they need the toilet, such as when they wake up and before bed. ●     Assess skin – ensure it is kept clean/dry. Check regularly to ensure that there isn’t excessive exposure to urine and faeces as this may cause skin damage. ●     Self-care and personal hygiene – keep wipes, sanitiser, a disposal bin, and disposable gloves close by you in the bathroom. Providing adequate hydration (around eight glasses of fluid daily) will prevent dehydration and constipation in people with dementia. Maintain a healthy bladder and bowels by ensuring they avoid caffeine and alcohol and eat a balanced diet that includes fibre-filled foods. If the constipation is severe, seek advice from a healthcare professional.  Read our lifestyle tips. How to choose the right incontinence product When incontinence episodes occur, absorbent continence pads are an essential aspect of care and are available as a precaution against individuals soiling their clothes. The type of continence products you need will depend on the individual’s type and level of incontinence, and the individual’s ability. For example, if the individual is passing small amounts of urine, or a dribble, a smaller product may be beneficial rather than a larger product which may cause distress to the individual. When it comes to selecting an all-in-one product, it is important to select the correct size. Please measure the individual’s waist and hips and use the larger of the two sizes to select a product size. If a product is too large, it increases the risk of leakage. Our product finder tool can help you find the right product for you. Our continence products include: ●     Incontinence pads for women and men ●     Pull-up pants – unisex ●     All-in-one or belted briefs for women and men ●     Shields for men ●     Fixation pants used with pads ●     Surface protection for bedding and furniture Consider the person's preferences but be guided by what you want the product to do.Maintaining dignity and comfort Modifications to the home can enhance the privacy and independence of individuals with Alzheimer’s. Clearing the route to the bathroom and placing a picture of a toilet on the door may aid memory. It can also help to keep the door ajar and a light on at night. Make life easier by installing a raised toilet or one with grab rails and add a commode or portable urinal in the person’s room for convenient night-time use. Support resources for caregivers Seek medical advice from your GP, local continence service, or Alzheimer’s nurse specialist. They will be able to advise on management and treatment plans. There are other helpful organisations, including the Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK, that may also be useful to you. A person who has Alzheimer’s and develops incontinence may feel anxious and depressed. This can be distressing for the person, their caregivers, and their families. But with the correct support, care for their dignity, and well-designed products, you can alleviate many problems that lead to incontinence.Sources ●    NHS UK ●    National Institute for Health & Care Research ●    Alzheimer's Society - Toilet Problems, Continence & Dementia ●    Alzheimer's Society - Communicating & Dementia ●    Alzheimer's Association - Incontinence ●    Helping Hands Home Care ●    Dementia UK ●    Alzheimer's Society - Continence & Using the Toilet ●    Very Well Health

Attends have developed a complete range of discreet underwear, specially adapted to the needs of both women and men. Our disposable and absorbent pants are extremely easy to put on and take off and thanks to the comfortable hip height, they are discreet and feel like real underwear – allowing you to feel in control.For an active lifestyle With Attends Lady Discreet Underwear and Attends Men Protective Underwear you can continue with an active lifestyle. Thanks to the superior fit and comfort, our soft pants feel like real underwear. The finely woven elastic threads ensure a snug fit - without slipping. The high-performance absorbent core protects against leakage and odour so you can feel safe - even when you're out and about.Designed to be skin friendly Our discreet underwear is particularly skin-friendly and certified according to OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This means that the absorbent pants have been tested for harmful substances and are harmless to human health. They are made from a breathable material and also feature a comfortable waistband, feeling soft and pleasant on the skin. Soft and breathable material. Certified according to OEKO-TEX Standard 100. Skin friendly – approved by SGS proderm GmbH, Institute for Applied Dermatological Research. Feel sale and secure Feels like real underwear. For active people who like to be on the move. Comfortable hip height. Snug fit due to finely woven elastic threads. Not visible under normal clothing. Available in black, with white absorbent core. Suitable for light to moderate bladder weakness. Features and benefits Fully elasticated waistband for a snug fit around your body. Dual Core with acquisition layer provides extra absorbency in the centre of the pad which helps reduce the risk of leakage and keeps the skin dry. Ultrasonic Bonding Technology without glue for increased softness. Soft white leakage barriers reduce the risk of leakage. Wetness indicator to show when the product needs changing. Discreet underwear also available in white We also provide absorbent and discreet underwear in white. Our Pull-Ons range has been developed to give you peace of mind and is available in a range of sizes and absorbencies, so you can find the best fit and absorbency level for your needs. New Pull-Ons Discreet are suitable for light to moderate bladder weakness and are designed specially for both men and women.Top tip! Before using our absorbent discreet underwear, it’s important that you first measure your hip and waist size first, using the larger of the two measurements to correctly select the right size.  For further information about our range of protective underwear, click here.

Moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) is caused by prolonged exposure of skin to various sources of moisture, including urine or faeces, perspiration, wound discharge, mucus, saliva, and their contents (Gray et al, 2011; Woo et al, 2017). When skin is exposed to prolonged moisture, the natural Ph level of the skin changes and can become sore and break eventually (Gray et al, 2011; Woo et al, 2017). Other factors contributing to MASD include germs on the skin surface, and mechanical factors such as friction (Gray et al, 2011). When the skin breaks down due to the presence of moisture it is more at risk of becoming damaged due to pressure (Fletcher, 2020).Prevention of MASD MASD can be prevented by making sure: Skin is regularly washed with a pH balanced cleanser, kept as dry as possible and checked regularly. A skin barrier film or cream is used, if at risk of MASD. This forms a protective layer between the skin and external irritants and moisture (Gray et al, 2011; McNichol et al, 2018). Any pads used for incontinence meet the correct level of absorbency (Beeckman et al, 2018). Any wound dressings meet the correct level of absorbency required. Any stoma/urostomy products are well fitted and emptied regularly. Regular change of position if the ability to walk is reduced/limited (Beeckman et al, 2020). Types of MASD Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD): IAD is caused due to a chemical irritation when urine or faeces meets the skin. Ammonia from the urine and enzymes from the faeces disrupt the acid balance of the skin and eventually causes the skin to break down (Woo et al, 2017). The affected area will present with swelling, skin changes and then it may progress to painful partial-thickness sores with a weepy sometimes green or clear fluid leakage. Faeces contains enzymes which increase the risk of infection when the skin is broken. With incontinence of urine and or faeces, the risk of developing MASD increases (Beeckman et al, 2018). Other related risk factors include reduced ability to walk resulting in difficulty getting to the toilet; diuretics (water tablets) and regular urine infections. Some medical conditions can result in incontinence which increases the risk of MASD. These are Multiple Sclerosis (MS); Parkinsons; Dementia; Spinal cord injury; Learning disabilities; Alzheimer’s disease; Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis (Fletcher, 2020).Intertriginous Dermatitis (ITD): This occurs when sweat is trapped in skin folds with minimal air circulation and is subjected to friction (Metin et al, 2018). This leads to inflammation and stripping of the skin, making the area more prone to infection (Kottner et al, 2020). Obese people are more at risk of ITD due to excessive skin folds, increased perspiration to regulate body temperature, and higher skin surface pH (Gabriel et al, 2019; Kottner et al, 2020).Periwound Moisture-Associated Dermatitis: The production of leakage is a normal response during the inflammatory stage of wound healing. Excessive amounts of wound exudate can cause the area around the wound (within 4cm of wound edge) to become damaged and break down (Fletcher, 2020). The presence of bacteria, specific proteins, or enzymes, and the volume of wound leakage greatly reduce the skin barrier function. Another factor affecting the occurrence of periwound damage is heavy handed removal of adhesive wound dressings, which affects the ability of the skin barrier by stripping away parts of the inner layer of the skin (Fletcher, 2020).Body Areas Prone to MASD Areas of the body prone to high risk of MASD include buttocks, groins, anal cleft and inner thighs, skin folds (e.g. under the abdomen and breasts), skin surrounding a stoma, urostomy sites and wet wounds. Signs & Symptoms of MASD MASD can be difficult to spot for people with darker skin. It's therefore useful to look out for the following (Fletcher et.al, 2020): Persistent red, sore and unbroken skin (this is not as obvious in darker pigmented skin). Skin is shiny and moist in appearance (again, not as obvious in darker pigmented skin). Multiple smaller areas of broken skin, where the skin has been stripped away. This can be superficial skin damage but can quickly extend in size and affect deeper tissues. Skin that is warm when touched. Skin that itches or stings. Wet skin. Implementing an Appropriate Care Pathway The approach to care will be similar in the first instance for all four types of moisture-associated skin damage and should focus on the following: Adopt a structured skin care regimen Use products that absorb and/or keep moisture away from the skin. Control the cause of excessive moisture. Treat infection (Voegeli, 2020). Avoid soap and water as traditional soap is made up of alkalis and fatty acids that raise the pH of the skin (Voegeli, 2020). The use of soft cloths and liquid barrier films and moisture barrier creams are recommended (Lichterfeld-Kottner et al, 2020). To learn more about skin health, please visit our free online eLearning platform - designed specifically for health and social care professionals, and you and your loved ones.References Beeckman, D., Campbell, K., Le Blanc, K. et.al (2020) Best practice recommendations for holistic strategies to promote and maintain skin integrity. Wounds International. Available online at: https://www.woundsinternational.com/resources/details/best-practice-recommendations-holistic-strategies-promote-and-maintain-skin-integrity. Beeckman, D., Smet, S., Van den Bussche, K. (2018) Incontinence-associated dermatitis: why do we need a core outcome set for clinical research? Wounds International 9(2): 21-25 Fletcher, J. (2020) Pressure ulcer education 6: incontinence assessment and Care. Nursing Times [online]; 116: 3, 42-44. Fletcher, J., Beeckman, D., Boyles, A. et al (2020) International Best Practice Recommendations: Prevention and management of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD). Wounds International. Available online at woundsinternational.com Gabriel, S., Hahnel, E., Blume-Peytavi, U., Kottner, J. (2019) Prevalence and associated factors of intertrigo in aged nursing home residents: a multi-center cross-sectional prevalence study. BMC Geriatrics 19(1): 105 Gray, M., Black, J.M., Baharestani, M.M., Bliss, D.Z., Colwell, J.C., Goldberg, M., Kennedy-Evans, K.L., Logan, S., Ratliff, C.R. (2011) Moisture-associated skin damage: overview and pathophysiology. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing. May-Jun;38(3):233-241. Kottner, J., Everink, I., Van Haastregt, J. (2020) Prevalence of intertrigo and associated factors: A secondary data analysis of four annual multicentre prevalence studies in the Netherlands. Int J Nurs Stud 104: 103437 Lichterfeld-Kottner, A., El Genedy, M., Lahmann, N. et al (2020) Maintaining skin integrity in the aged: A systematic review. International Journal Nursing Studies 103: 103-509. Metin, A., Dilek, N., Bilgili, S.G. (2018) Recurrent candidal intertrigo: challenges and solutions. Clinical Cosmet Investigation Dermatology. April 17;11:175-185. McNichol, L.L., Ayello, E.A., Phearman, L.A., Pezzella, P.A., Culver, E.A. (2018) Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: State of the Science and Knowledge Translation. Advanced Skin Wound Care. November 31(11):502-513. Voegeli D (2020) Intertrigo: causes, prevention and management. Br J Nurs 29(12): S16-22. Woo, K.Y., Beeckman, D., Chakravarthy, D. (2017) Management of Moisture-Associated Skin Damage: A Scoping Review. Advanced Skin Wound Care. November;30(11):494-501.

New year, endless possibilities! Many people make one or more new year’s resolutions to accomplish a personal goal or change an undesired trait or behaviour. Changing your habits can not only have a positive impact on your health, but can also improve your continence issues.1 - Stop smoking We know, it sounds easier than it is. Cigarettes are known for their negative health impacts, but did you know that a smoker’s cough can have an impact on your bladder? By quitting, you can minimise or eliminate a smoker’s cough, which in turn reduces pressure (stress) on your bladder. Stopping smoking is also good for your wallet!2 - Exercising, including pelvic floor exercises Exercising more is a well-known trend in new year’s resolutions, and increased focus on training your pelvic floor muscles should be amongst yours. Did you know that as many as 70% of people who suffer from urinary incontinence notice a positive change in their urine leakage by doing their pelvic floor exercises correctly and regularly? Whether you’re male or female, regular pelvic floor training can in many cases improve or even eliminate urine leakage. It’s important to know that you won’t see results straight away, but the results do come over time! Don’t feel down or give up if it takes a few months before you notice the positive effects of training your pelvic floor. If you’re unsure of how to train your pelvic floor correctly, please visit our free online eLearning platform to view our video tutorial.3 - Drink responsibly Certain types of drinks can have an impact on urine leakage. Drinks such as alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated drinks (for example, lemonade etc) can irritate your bladder, so drink these in moderation. Be sure to reduce your alcohol intake, try decaffeinated drinks or replace tea and coffee with water. This will help to maintain a healthy bladder.4 - Talk more The impact of urinary incontinence can be life-altering, often causing embarrassment, anxiety or depression – diminishing quality of life, preventing many from pursuing their normal activities. Many people who experience urinary incontinence are ashamed and often don’t want to talk about it. It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people experience some type of incontinence during their lifetime, so an issue affecting this many people should be normalised and discussed. If you haven’t visited your doctor or a continence nurse about any incontinence issues you may be experiencing, let 2023 be the year! A professional healthcare practitioner can help provide understanding, help and support. It’s important to remember that urinary incontinence is not an evitable part of aging and like many conditions, it is treatable. We also recommend talking to your close friends and family for additional support and understanding. Whilst investigation and treatment plans are explored, you may need to consider using an absorbent product. To learn more about our complete range of bladder weakness and incontinence products, click here. Happy New Year!

It’s widely acknowledged that urinary incontinence in men is underestimated and often goes untreated, even though approximately 25% of men suffer from some form of urinary incontinence. Incontinence in men is often related to prostate problems, however it may be brought on by medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, spinal damage and Parkinson’s disease.Incontinence can also present itself as a result of pelvic surgical procedures, including prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland). The impact of urinary incontinence can be life-altering, often causing embarrassment, anxiety or depression – diminishing quality of life, preventing men from pursuing their normal activities. Bladder control problems can be short-term or long-term. Most cases of short-term male incontinence result from a specific health issue or recent treatment, for example, taking certain medications such as those for colds, depression, sedatives, narcotics and diuretics. Chronic male incontinence is a long-term condition and is often related to prostate problems and treatments. It’s important to remember that urinary incontinence is not an evitable part of aging and like many conditions, it is treatable.Prostate Problems Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (also called Prostate Gland Enlargement) occurs as part of the ageing process and is common in men over the age of 50. Benign Prostate Hyperplasia can affect the flow of urine and may result in: Poor/weak flow of urine, difficulty when starting to pass urine, passing urine more frequently, feeling an urgency to pass urine, discomfort and leakage when a small amount of urine dribbles into your underwear after passing urine (post micturition dribble).Lifestyle Changes Simple lifestyle changes can help, including: Maintaining a healthy weight Reduce caffeine, limit alcohol and carbonated drinks Cut down on smoking – excessive coughing can put additional pressure on the bladder Bladder retraining – to modify your bladder’s behaviour by scheduling bathroom trips at set times throughout the day Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles Prostatitis is painful inflammation of the prostate gland, resulting in pain when passing urine (Dysuria), pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, abdomen, groin, penis, testicles or lower back, painful ejaculation, difficulty passing urine, dribbling or hesitation, frequency and urgency of urination (Nocturia), urine may be cloudy or contain specs of blood or fever, chills, muscle aches and other flu-like symptoms (with Acute Bacterial Prostatitis). If you have any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention. Other factors can affect continence/incontinence, such as medication (for example diuretic medications can increase the risk of urine leakage), urinary tract infections and being overweight puts extra pressure on abdominal and pelvic muscles, making it harder to avoid urine leakage.To learn more about strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, please visit our online eLearning platform for guidance in our dedicated video module. If symptoms persist, please seek medical attention. To help with your diagnosis, a doctor will review your symptoms by carrying out a urine test and a physical examination. A treatment plan will then be put in place. Whilst investigation and treatment plans are explored, you may need to consider using an absorbent product. To learn more about our complete range of bladder weakness and incontinence products, click here.

Attends Soft, our discreet and absorbent liners and pads for very light to heavy urinary incontinence, has gone through some updates on both the packaging and the top sheet. Read more about the products and what’s new below.For Sensitive SkinAttends Soft is our range of discreet absorbent liners and pads for bladder weakness – suitable for sensitive skin and shaped for discretion. You might be familiar with the blue flower print on the surface of our Attends Soft 0 – 3+, however, this print has now been removed. Our super soft top sheet is now completely print free. The delicate Soft range is suitable for your sensitive skin and helps to maintain the skin’s natural pH-level. Furthermore, no lotion or fragrance has been added and our comfortably soft products provide a cotton-like feel against your skin. See our entire Attends Soft range here. Attends Soft 1 - 7 is also tested and approved by proderm Institute for Applied Dermatological Research. New Bag DesignThe bag for Attends Soft has also had a makeover, and along with consisting of a minimum of 30% recycled material, it has a more modern and fresh look. You can easily navigate the information provided on the bag with the easy-to-understand information bar on the front of the product.See all Soft productsWho Can Wear Attends Soft?The easy answer to that question is: everyone! The products are designed for people with an active lifestyle and you can wear the products in your own close fitting underwear. Attends Soft comes in a wide variety of sizes, from our smallest panty liners in absorbency 0 to pads in absorbency 7, which can handle heavy urinary incontinence. The liners and pads stay in place when you are active, and the 100% breathable material helps you to feel comfortable whilst wearing the product. You can use Attends Soft both day and night to feel protected, comfortable and more confident.   TIPS! If you are looking for a pad to use during the night, we can also recommend Attends Lady Night – read more about our Lady Night pads that are specially designed for extra protection during the night here. Highly Renowned CertificationsWe are proud to say that Attends Soft 1 - 7 are certified with both the Nordic Swan Ecolabel and Oeko-Tex Standard 100. Having the Nordic Swan Ecolabel on our Attends Soft product range means that they have amongst the lowest environmental impact within the relevant product group. By having the Attends Soft 1 - 7 certified with the strictest Oeko-Tex certification available (Standard 100), you can be sure that all components of these products meet strict requirements and are harmless for human health. Read more about these certifications here.Did you know Attends Soft can be worn by both women and men? Attends Soft 2 - 7 is a unisex product that can be worn by both women and men. This is also stated on the front of the bags with a dual gender icon. We are confident you will enjoy our upgraded Attends Soft range. If you have any questions about any of our product ranges, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Soft and discreet absorbent pants that feel like underwear – now with an even softer feel and better protection!We are proud to introduce our new Attends Pull-Ons range with several new and upgraded features. Improved fitting, discretion and comfort are just some key features you will notice.New Bag DesignOne of the first things you will notice, is the updated design of the Attends Pull-Ons bags. They are now blue with a prominent information bar / space where you can easily see the absorption level with drops, waist size, what genders the products are suitable for and how many pants are in each bag.New numberingWe have also changed the absorption number of the previous Attends Pull-Ons 3 and 5. They are now named Attends Pull-Ons 4 and 6, which is a better reflection of the actual absorption capacity of the products – the products inside continue to be the same super absorbent pull-up pants.DiscretionWe know that users of our products appreciate discretion. That is why our Attends Pull-Ons comfortably adapt to your body with a fully elasticated waistband and improved fitting. Attends Pull-Ons are slim and discreet. This makes them less noticeable – even under tight clothing.ComfortThe back sheet of the new Attends Pull-Ons are now 100% breathable for improved wearer comfort. It has Maxi Comfort technology and full-panel elastics with ultrasonic bonding. The absorbent Attends Pull-Ons pants are practical and skin-friendly – so you can have an active life with the feeling of security. We are confident you will appreciate the upgrades in our Attends Pull-Ons range. You can easily order them at our online shop or order a sample to try before you buy.