Love is in the air and romance abounds as people look for the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts to express their feelings.
This year, expressions of tender loving care can include more than just gifts for someone special – give yourself the gift of good health! If you made some New Year’s health resolutions, now is a good time to continue along that path by making your bladder the object of your attention.
If you have pain, frequent urination or discomfort associated with your bladder, talk to your doctor to find out how can show your bladder some love. From quality hydration to exercise, here are some solutions that can help you achieve a lovable bladder.
- Strive to maintain a healthy weight. Opt for smarter food choices that contain fewer calories and fat, and stay physically active.
- Drink the recommended intake of fluids each day and empty your bladder every three to four hours, with the release of urine the color of pale yellow.
- Do pelvic floor exercises such as Kegels to increase pelvic flexibility, improve balance and master bladder control. They also support your pelvic organs and help prevent conditions like pelvic prolapse.
- When you have to go…go! Urinating as soon as the urge arises prevents the exacerbation of bladder muscles and prevents urinary infections.
- Relax your muscles while you go. Hovering or straddling a toilet seat may put too much stress on your pelvic muscles, so try sitting so that your pelvic floor is not agitated.
- Pay attention to your caffeine and alcohol intake. Beverages like alcohol and those which contain caffeine trigger bladder problems that cause leakage.
- Consider a smoking cessation program if you are a smoker. Women who quit smoking lower their risk of bladder cancer tremendously.
- Constipation can lead to bladder problems, to so eat high-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables and fruits to ensure that your bowels move regularly.
- Women should wipe from front to back after urinating to avoid distributing bacteria that cause bladder infections. This is especially important after a bowel movement.
- Wear loose fitting clothes and cotton underwear to allow air to circulate freely in the area surrounding the urethra and keep it dry.
