Dietary Management of Stress Incontinence by Madelaine Morrish, Registered Dietitian

What is Stress Incontinence?

Stress Incontinence is the accidental leakage of urine during physical exertion, which can include coughing, sneezing, lifting or performing other workout routines. These activities increase the pressure on the bladder, which results in the bladder releasing urine.

What Causes Stress Incontinence?

Stress Incontinence is more prevalent in younger woman and women under 55 years. Stress Incontinence is most commonly developed by changes that happen in pregnancy or child birth which weaken the support to the urethra. Other factors that can result in Stress Incontinence include: chronic coughing, constipation, being overweight, aging, smoking, and extreme weight lifting.

How Can a Registered Dietitian Help Manage Stress Incontinence?

A Registered Dietitian is a regulated health care professional who is trained to provide advice and counseling about diet, food and nutrition based on an individual's needs, including nutrition management of chronic health conditions. A Registered Dietitian can help with management of Stress Incontinence by assessing your diet and providing recommendations for:

• Reaching a comfortable weight

• Managing constipation

• Reducing caffeine intake

• Strategies to manage fluid intake

Other Lifesyle Changes to Manage Stress Incontinence

• Complete regular pelvic floor exercises recommended by a pelvic floor physiotherapist

• Quit smoking

• Avoid weight lifting and/or repeated heavy lifting

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