Why do we keep so many secrets as women? We’re so shady, lol.

Nobody tells pregnant women how jacked up their body will be after pregnancy. Or how their hair will fall out after a few weeks postpartum. And nobody tells them that they better not watch Kevin Hart’s latest stand up special because they may leave a wet spot on their pants. (avoids eye contact)

Look, it is not just pregnant women who experience bladder leaks. 1-in-3 women, (and 1-in-2 African-American women – FML) experience bladder leaks, but only 1-in-9 use products to manage it. Fun fact: When I laugh too hard for too long, I always have to run to the bathroom. Have been like that all my life. (I try not to go see comedies in the movie theater anymore….IJS)

Here are a few ways to help prevent bladder leaks:

Exercise:

Come on. You know me. This would have to be the first item on the list. High impact workouts can put a strain on your pelvic system so be sure to do exercises such as Piyo, pilates, yoga and strength training.

Quit smoking:

If you’re still smoking, here’s more reason to quit. All the coughing you do as a smoker puts more pressure on you downstairs and encourages leaks. We don’t want that. Good luck quitting. You’re strong, you can do it!

Stay hydrated:

This sounds backwards, right? But staying hydrated prevents dehydration which leads to constipation and contributes to incontinence. Drink up. Add a glass of water to your day when you wake up and one before dinner each night.

Avoid Straining:

Try to avoid lifting heavy objects or pushing/pulling heavy furniture around. Let someone help you. Straining leads to leaks!

Kegels:

Pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegels, are a great way to strengthen the area responsible for leaks. Just contract the area and hold for at least 10 seconds and release. Keep going and work up to holding for longer and longer periods of time.

Now, I’m not a medical pro, so definitely speak to your doctor about these and other ways to work on this issue.

While doing the above may help prevent bladder leaks, use of liners or underwear like Always Discreet will definitely have your back when it happens. You can get thin liners, pads in a variety of lengths, and even underwear (classic cut or low rise) so you’ll be protected from leaks of all sizes. All products are dermatologically tested and are created to keep you protected from leaks with LeakGuard™ technology on pads and underwear. 

I know what you’re thinking, “Girl, I can just put on a period pad and keep it moving!” Nope! Always Discreet is way more absorbent that period pads/liners and it’s the only brand with OdorLock™ technology, which period pads don’t have.

As women we need to start talking about these things and supporting each other through it. So, let’s remember that bladder leaks are totally normal and let’s talk about it!

Have you experienced bladder leaks when pregnant or otherwise?

 

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Always Discreet. The opinions and text are all mine.