No one likes to bring up the subject of leakage ‘down below’. Well, Sarahjane West-Watson does and she lifts the lid on pelvic shame
When I tell people I specialise in pelvic floor restoration, the response is usually “I need to come and see you!”. Sadly, the stats also reflect this unspoken voice of the female population.
It’s estimated that urinary incontinence affects around 40% of all women (as compared to 10% of men); with younger women being affected by ‘slight to moderate’ leakage and older women being affected more severely*. But, just because the volume of leakage may be less in younger women, the impact on quality of life and mental angst may well be significantly higher.
‘Strategic dressing’ is what a lot of my clients call it. Having to pack a spare pair of knickers and trousers in their work bag. Choosing dark leggings for the gym or having a spare jumper they can wrap around their waist, you know, just in case.
And whilst these stats are alarming, what is more concerning, is that even in today’s world, women continue to live in shame and silence, believing this is something that they have to put up with.
Which brings me to Kegels (aka pelvic floor exercises). There seems to be a residing belief that pelvic floor weakness is all your fault because you didn’t do your Kegels.
I beg you; don’t feel guilty. Here’s why; there is a huge misunderstanding around them. More often than not, women either a) don’t know what they should be doing or b) tighten the wrong bits, which can actually have a detrimental impact on certain pelvic floor dysfunctions, including an overactive bladder and prolapse.
So, what should you be doing to support your pelvic floor and lift this burden of shame? Firstly, speak with your GP and ask for a referral to a women’s health physio. They are amazing and believe me, they’ve heard it all before. Nothing you say will shock them – I promise!
Another great tip is to look at the triggers for your weakness – caffeine and alcohol are the usual culprits, as is simply not making time to go to the loo until it’s too late. So next time you schedule a gym class after a coffee with a friend, think again, or choose a caffeine-free alternative pre-workout.
And finally, just start tuning back into your pelvic floor. More often than not, we are simply disconnected from the muscles we need to be working…
And if you’re not sure where to start you can download a simple six-step guide here.
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