We may not think about our bladder on a regular basis, but our bodies certainly remind us with every trip to the restroom. Bladder health month is intended to inform the public about how to best upkeep bladder health, and to increase awareness of potential bladder problems that can develop overtime. There’s no shame in bladder talk. It’s important and natural. So, we encourage you to talk openly! Often people opt to use code terms like “using the bathroom”, “peeing”, “taking a leak”, or “going potty” just to avoid the awkwardness of the topic. But speak openly and honestly to your doctor if you are experiencing problems. They will understand, and it will help them better evaluate your symptoms.
Healthy Bladder Tips:
Here are some things to pay attention to maintain a healthy bladder:
- Water intake
Drink lots of water! Drinking water helps flush your urinary tract and prevent an infection from accumulating. It is recommended that a person drinks 11-15 cups of water per day. For women it is recommended to consume 11.5 cups of water, and for men it is recommended around 15 cups of water. Also, please note that weight, diet, temperature, and activity levels all impact these levels as well.
- Cut down on caffeinated drinks
Coffee, sodas, and alcohol all heighten bladder activity and lead to leakage. Limit the amount consumed and pay attention to their effect on your body.
- Stop smoking
Smoking has shown a high correlation to bladder cancer. According to statistics, people who smoke are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than a non-smoker.
- Use healthy bathroom habits
Don’t hold it! Holding urine in your bladder for too long can weaken your bladder muscles and make a bladder infection more likely. It is normal to go to the bathroom every 3-4 hours. Regular use of the bathroom is important. Also, take enough time when you’re using the bathroom. Don’t rush. If you don’t empty your bladder fully, over time, you could get a bladder infection. For wiping, wipe from front to back. Specifically, Women should wipe from front to back to keep bacteria from getting into the urethra.
- Urinate after sex
Both women and men should urinate shortly after sex to flush away bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sex.
- Clothing
Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Wearing loose, cotton clothing allows air to keep the area around the urethra dry. Clothes like tight-fitting jeans and nylon underwear can trap moisture and help bacteria grow.
If you have any questions about Bladder Health, please call the clinic at (901) 306-5433 to schedule an appointment. As always, stay safe and healthy!
-Wellness and Stress Clinic Team
Resources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/13-tips-keep-your-bladder-healthy
https://www.urologyhealth.org/healthy-living/care-blog/november-is-bladder-health-month
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-water-should-you-drink-per-day#other-fluids