Experiencing bladder leakage whilst coughing is a common and affects one in three women. This can happen as a result of various factors, such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, childbirth, or disorders of the urogenital and nervous systems. Weakened pelvic floor muscles, often caused by surgeries or physical strain including excess weight, are common reasons why coughing may lead to urinary incontinence. Take the time to better understand the causes of bladder leaks. However, remember that if you have any concerns about bladder weakness, your first step should always be to consult your GP.
Urinary stress incontinence
Urinary stress incontinence is a common condition characterised by involuntary urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or physical activity. It stems from weakened pelvic floor muscles and increased abdominal pressure, which prevent the bladder from retaining urine. In more advanced cases, bladder leakage when coughing or with even minimal effort can be particularly bothersome. However, regular Kegel exercises, a proper diet, and avoiding factors that strain the bladder can significantly improve the condition.
Incontinence when coughing
One of the most common types of urinary incontinence is leakage during coughing. This is typically linked to increased abdominal pressure, such as during coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Coughing and urinary incontinence often stem from weakened pelvic floor muscles, making bladder control more challenging. Coughing and bladder leakage can be challenging, but effective treatment methods are available, such as pelvic floor strengthening exercises and lifestyle modification.
Causes of stress urinary incontinence whilst coughing
Stress urinary incontinence associated with coughing has several causes, including:
- Hormonal changes during menopause – A decrease in oestrogen levels leads to weakened pelvic floor muscles due to loss of collagen.
- Pregnancy and childbirth– Damage to the nerves, muscles, and ligaments in the pelvic floor area can result in difficulty maintaining bladder control.
- Neurological disorders – Conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or strokes can impact the muscles controlling the bladder.
- Urogenital disorders – Infections or dysfunctions in this system may lead to urinary control issues.
- Years of heavy physical labour – Prolonged strain on the body weakens the pelvic floor muscles.
- Gynaecological, urological, and proctological surgeries – These may cause structural damage and weaken muscle function.
- Diseases causing chronic coughing – Persistent coughing increases abdominal pressure, contributing to bladder leakage.
Cough-related urinary incontinence more commonly affects women, particularly those who are middle-aged or older, overweight, smokers, or have had multiple pregnancies.
Loss of bladder control when coughing – how to prevent it?
To prevent bladder leaks during coughing, consider making a few simple lifestyle changes:
- Limit or eliminate alcohol consumption – This can have a positive effect on bladder function.
- Adjust exercise routines – Reduce the intensity of workouts temporarily until you manage urinary incontinence.
- Maintain a healthy weight and quit smoking.
- Address constipation – Incorporate fibre-rich foods into your diet and stay properly hydrated.
Treatment for urinary incontinence whilst coughing
The treatment for bladder leakage whilst coughing depends on its severity and underlying causes. Initially, conservative treatment is recommended: Modify your diet – Avoid substances that may negatively impact bladder function, such as caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. Reducing body weight in overweight individuals is also essential. Another recommended step is pelvic floor muscle training. These exercises strengthen the muscles responsible for bladder control and should be done under the guidance of a specialist to ensure proper technique and effectiveness. Discover how pelvic floor exercises can help manage bladder leaks and improve your confidence. Visit our website to learn more: Squeeze the Day.
Potential treatments for urinary incontinence
Managing urinary incontinence during coughing also includes several specialised techniques and therapies. It is essential to consult a GP to determine the most appropriate and effective approach for your individual situation:
- Biofeedback – This method uses electronic devices to monitor muscle activity, helping patients learn to control these muscles better. Visual or auditory signals guide patients in performing pelvic floor exercises correctly.
- Vaginal cones and weights – These devices are inserted into the vagina, requiring the surrounding muscles to contract actively. It is a form of passive exercise that can be done during everyday activities.
- Electrical stimulation – Weak electrical impulses stimulate and strengthen pelvic floor muscles. This is especially beneficial for individuals who find it difficult to perform Kegel exercises independently.
- Pulsed magnetic field therapy – A magnetic field induces contractions in pelvic floor muscles. It strengthens these muscles without requiring active patient participation.
- Pessaries (prosthetic management) – These are devices inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs. They help maintain the proper position of the urethra, reducing urinary incontinence.
- Behavioural therapy – This involves strategies like adjusting fluid intake, keeping a bladder diary, and techniques for managing urgency. It focuses on modifying bladder-related behaviours for better control.
Pharmacological treatment for urinary incontinence
When other methods do not yield the desired results, pharmacological treatment may be considered. This involves the use of medications that act on muscarinic receptors in the bladder. The goal is to reduce bladder overactivity by minimising uncontrolled muscle contractions, which helps decrease the frequency of sudden urges to urinate. However, it is essential to consult a GP before starting any medication to ensure it is appropriate and safe for your individual situation.
Other pharmacological options include medications that relax bladder muscles, increasing its capacity and reducing the frequency of urination. Additionally, drugs may be used to reduce nighttime urine production.
In more challenging cases, where home remedies for coughing bladder leakage prove insufficient, surgical treatment may be implemented to restore bladder control when coughing.
Every treatment should be tailored to every individual, working alongside a medical professional.
Involuntary bladder leakage whilst coughing
People dealing with urinary incontinence when coughing, sneezing, or exercising know how disruptive this issue can be. An effective solution for managing coughing bladder leaks includes hygiene products such as incontinence liners, incontinence pads or incontinence pants. The Always Discreet brand offers a wide range of these products, which lock in bladder leaks and odours are also gentle on the skin and dermatologically tested. They are designed to be thin and stay thin so you can feel confident and unrestricted in your everyday activities. Thanks to these solutions, coughing and urinary incontinence can be managed more comfortably and effectively. Effective protection provides a sense of confidence and comfort.