How to Manage Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence occurs when the bladder contracts unnecessarily and causes a strong urge to urinate. The urge to urinate comes on suddenly, and a small or large amount of urine can leak before you make it to the bathroom. Urge incontinence can affect anyone, and many times the cause is unknown.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor about medications that might improve your symptoms. A variety of drugs are available to relax the bladder and prevent spasms, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

• 2

  Use urinary incontinence products to help keep you dry. Pads might be sufficient if you leak small amounts of urine, and adult diapers or washable absorbent underwear can help with a more serious leakage problem. Men also have the option of using drip collectors, which fit over the penis, or condom catheters, which fit like a condom and carry urine to a bag attached to the leg. Women can try foam pads, which fit between the labia, or silicone caps, which cover the urinary opening.

• 3

  Manage your diet. Certain foods and drinks can worsen urge incontinence, according to the National Association for Continence. Consider eliminating or reducing caffeine, alcohol and artificial sweeteners. Acidic and spicy foods also can aggravate symptoms.

• 4

  Ask your doctor about bladder retraining. He might recommend that you urinate on a schedule to train your bladder to hold urine longer.

• 5

  Do pelvic floor exercises. Strengthening your pelvic muscles can help you hold urine. Perform these exercises by tightening the muscles you would use to stop a stream of urine. The National Association for Continence recommends doing quick contractions with 10 second breaks in between each contraction and slower contractions that you try to hold for five seconds (10 seconds as the muscles get stronger).

• 6

  Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are severe. Surgical options are available for serious cases of urge incontinence that do not respond to other treatments.