With the likes of menstruation and other taboo topics becoming more widely discussed, it’s time to talk about another unseen condition—bladder leaks.
Right now, one in three women of all ages is living with leaks and 62% of Australians who experience bladder leaks have not contacted a health professional.
The cloud of misconceptions hanging over the condition often leaves many battling on their own and without a solution. A recent report found 39% of people who experience leaks are less confident leaving the house and more than a quarter of the participants indicated that leaks are affecting their mental health or relationships. We say – enough, is enough.
Let’s shake off the stigma and start the conversation with one another. Consider this article a helping hand to guide you towards the first important discussion to help you feel like yourself again.
Be Kind To Yourself
If you’re experiencing bladder leaks, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Countless women across Australia are going through the same battles as you every day. You don’t need to face the condition alone and you don’t need to fly solo in finding a solution either.
With guidance, bladder leaks can be eliminated once and for all. Rehabilitation and recovery are attainable goals and can transform your life in a matter of weeks. The first and hardest step is recognising that you and your health are worth it – believe us, it is!
Speak Up
Learning to reach out when you need support is a hurdle many of us work to overcome. It may feel like you need a mountain of courage to speak up, but you’ll be surprised who is there to listen when you do.
Start the chat with your closest friends and family. Many of your circle may have experienced bladder leaks themselves or know someone who has. Being open and honest about life’s struggles with your close-knit crew will strengthen your relationships with them too.
Your support network can also extend beyond the people in your immediate circle. Reach out to women’s health groups in your community, on social media or check out some of the incredible not-for-profit organisations that are set-up to provide helpful information and support, such as Continence Foundation of Australia.
Steps Towards Treatment
Making the decision to put your health first is a momentous step. Next, let’s look at the options to help you feel like yourself again.
Your local GP is a great starting point to begin the conversation and most importantly, your recovery. Health practitioners can provide tailored advice to meet your individual needs. Their recommendations for treatment may include a referral to a physiotherapist or pelvic floor exercises with a targeted device such as PeriCoach.
PeriCoach is an at-home pelvic floor trainer created in consultation with the leaders in pelvic floor rehabilitation and physical therapy. The Australian made device and 8 Week Challenge training program have been proven to reduce leaks in just eight weeks.
In fact, women who completed PeriCoach’s 8 Week Challenge program reported a significant improvement in quality of life. They found more enjoyment in daily tasks, enhanced sexual pleasure and less leak distress all due to the outcome of their daily pelvic floor training exercises.
PeriCoach also makes sharing and reviewing your exercise data with your clinician easy. Seeing your improvements tracked over time not only helps you understand your results it reinforces the motivation to stick to your training and feel stronger every day.
Your Gentle Reminder
Remember, you don’t need permission to talk about your health. Find your safe space, start the conversation and let’s turn the leak taboo into a common conversation.
Order your PeriCoach today and feel like yourself again
Continence in Australia: A snapshot, A report by Continence Foundation of Australia, June 2019