Health Tip: Coping With Urinary Incontinence

Non-surgical options for women

Posted 1/25/08

(HealthDay News) - Urinary incontinence affects millions of women, commonly after childbirth.

The National Women's Health Information Center lists these non-surgical options to help control urinary incontinence:

Perform Kegel exercises designed to make your pelvic muscles stronger.
Set a schedule for emptying your bladder, instead of waiting until you have to go. Slowly increase the amount of time between trips to the bathroom.
Maintain a healthy body weight, as excess weight can strain the bladder and surrounding muscles.
Limit or avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.
Biofeedback may help you learn to better control the bladder and surrounding muscles.
Prescription medication may help control some types of incontinence. Talk with your doctor about whether medication may work for you.