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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

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

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

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.