Now that we have learned what the bladder is, let’s talk about the most common problems you can experience with it. I like to use the word “dysfunction” instead of disease during these educational blogs. Dysfunction implies that it is just a temporary problem that has a solution! Think of a bladder dysfunction as a weak muscle after surgery… If you work on strengthening that weak muscle it gets stronger, right? The same principle with the bladder, if you know what the dysfunction is, then you can take steps to improve it!
Common Bladder Dysfunctions Include:
Bladder Urgency – excessive sensations of needing to void, even if you have emptied your bladder.
Bladder Frequency – The need to empty the bladder frequently, usually more often than 8 times a day,
Stress Incontinence – Involuntary loss of urine on effort or physical exertion (such as cough, sneezing,
laughing, & sporting activities).
Urge Incontinence – Involuntary loss of urine associated with urgency (the sensation of needing to void)
Overactive Bladder – Urinary urgency, commonly with frequency and nocturia, with or without urge UI.
49% of gym exercising women experienced SUI
(McKenzie et al., 2016)
I saw this quote while doing my training for pelvic floor rehabilitation and it really made an impression on me. If you attend a workout class or go to a local gym, look at all the women there working out. Imagine how many of them are suffering from bladder dysfunction and have probably never said anything to their medical providers about it.
If you or anyone you know are experiencing symptoms described in this blog, research has proven that pelvic floor rehabilitation can improve your symptoms! You should talk to your primary care physician or your OB/GYN about a referral to physical therapy.
As always if you have any questions drop a comment down below or submit a contact form HERE and I will be happy to answer any questions!!
Want to read more? Check out previous posts!
