Ask the Experts- July 2023

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

I’m 56 and I have noticed some bladder changes since going into menopause. Can you clarify what’s could be happening? Many thanks for helping so many women, including myself.

Betty

Dear Betty,

The bladder does change with age. Its walls become less elastic and may cause you to hold less urine. As a result, you may have to go to the bathroom more often. Sometimes, the bladder muscles weaken, and the bladder may not empty completely when you go to the bathroom. This often is the cause of urinary tract infections.

In addition, urinary incontinence (UI) is more common with age. UI is the involuntary loss of urine from the bladder. It is a very common problem in women of all ages.

You should see your doctor if you have any symptoms such as involuntary leakage of urine; frequent sudden urges to urinate; difficulty delaying urination; or inability to control urination once the low of urine has started.

There are a few things you can do to prevent or manage incontinence:

• Drink plenty of fluids but don’t drink fluids after 7 pm.
• Limit or avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Be careful with medications and always tell your doctor what medications you are taking as some may affect urination.
• Follow a fixed bathroom schedule and always empty your bladder completely.
• Do pelvic floor exercises (Kegels)
• Stay active as inactivity will make you retain urine.