Exploring new destinations can be a transformative and enriching experience. However, for women over 40 dealing with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the prospect of travel can sometimes be challenging. The fear of accidents, managing incontinence products, and uncertain restroom access can heighten anxiety during travel.
In this article, we aim to empower women over 40 with SUI to confidently embrace travel.
Choose Your Travel Wardrobe Wisely
The National Association for Continence (NAFC) reported that incontinence is very common among women aged 40-64, with 72% having experienced it. Also, 74% of women first encounter incontinence during those same ages. Therefore, selecting the right travel wardrobe is more than just about fashion. It’s about comfort, practicality, and peace of mind.
Choose clothing made from lightweight, airy materials like linen or cotton to help prevent moisture buildup and irritation. Avoid clothing that can constrict your pelvic area. Consider investing in dark-colored clothing to help mask any accidents. They offer flexibility to adapt your clothing to different weather conditions or unexpected events.
How can I pack discreetly for potential incontinence without feeling uncomfortable?
To pack incontinence supplies discreetly, use small, stylish pouches to store extra liners, underwear, or pads. Choose dark clothing that can hide any potential accidents, and bring plastic bags for used items. Keep your essentials in a travel bag or purse for easy access, ensuring your privacy and comfort throughout your trip.
Plan Your Restroom Breaks in Advance
Planning restroom breaks in advance can significantly ease anxiety for women over 40 managing stress urinary incontinence (SUI) while traveling. Research your route and identify restrooms along the way, whether you’re driving or exploring a new city. Travel apps and websites provide restroom locators for airports, highways, and tourist spots, simplifying access to clean facilities.
When flying or taking long bus trips, opt for an aisle seat to make it easier to get to the restroom without bothering anyone. When driving, plan to take breaks every two to three hours for bladder relief and relaxation. By planning restroom stops in advance, you can avoid the stress of last-minute searches and enjoy your journey with more peace of mind.
Stay Hydrated—but Manage Fluid Intake Smartly
Staying hydrated is crucial, but women over 40 with SUI should manage fluid intake carefully when traveling. While cutting back on fluids may appear to be a solution, dehydration can aggravate the bladder and exacerbate incontinence issues. Instead, stay hydrated by sipping water steadily throughout the day and avoiding large quantities at once.
Alcohol, tea, and coffee can stimulate urination. Try drinking them in moderation or avoiding them altogether. The National Institute on Aging suggests that certain foods and drinks can worsen bladder problems. These include sodas, artificial sweeteners, spicy foods, citrus fruits and juices, and tomato-based foods.
What drinks should I avoid to reduce bladder irritation while traveling?
Avoid coffee, tea, alcohol, and carbonated drinks while traveling, as they can irritate the bladder. Also, steer clear of citrus juices and artificial sweeteners, which may trigger urgency. Opt for water or herbal teas to stay hydrated without irritation.
Explore Surgical Procedures Like Mesh Implants
Surgical options could be considered for women with severe SUI who have not benefited from less invasive approaches. One such procedure involves the use of mesh implants. Mesh implants are synthetic materials placed in the pelvic floor to provide support and reduce urinary leakage.
Before undergoing mesh implant surgery, it’s important to be informed about the potential drawbacks and complications. Some women have reported critical side effects, including pain, infection, and erosion of the mesh. These issues have led to a significant number of lawsuits in recent years. Plaintiffs in the vaginal mesh lawsuit allege that the products caused painful injuries, and companies misled consumers about the safety of transvaginal mesh implants.
TorHoerman Law states that the average settlement value for vaginal mesh lawsuits ranges from $150,000 to over $400,000. These amounts vary depending on the individual circumstances. However, these figures are estimates and not a guarantee of what individuals might receive.
Can I undergo surgery for incontinence and still manage a long trip shortly after?
While surgery for incontinence can offer long-term relief, recovery time varies. It’s generally advised to avoid long trips for at least four to six weeks post-surgery. It allows time for healing and reduces the risk of complications. Consult your doctor for personalized advice based on your procedure and recovery progress.
Pack Essential Medications and Bladder Control Aids
When traveling with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), it’s crucial to pack necessary medications and bladder control aids for effective symptom management. If you’re prescribed anticholinergics or beta-3 adrenergic agonists, make sure to bring enough medication for the entire trip.
To be prepared for unexpected situations, pack over-the-counter options like bladder control pads, liners, or adult briefs. For added protection, especially during overnight stays or long flights, consider bringing disposable bed pads. Keeping these essentials in your carry-on ensures you’re ready for anything.
Consider Bladder Retraining And Kegel Exercises
Bladder training and pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels, effectively manage stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and improve bladder control, particularly while traveling. Bladder training is a technique that helps you extend the time between bathroom breaks, gradually teaching your bladder to hold more urine. These techniques can empower women to enjoy their trips with greater confidence and less worry about incontinence.
Pelvic floor exercises help strengthen the muscles supporting the bladder and urethra, reducing leakage during physical activity or sudden movements. By making these exercises a part of your daily schedule can improve your confidence and ability to manage your condition. Start practicing a few weeks prior to your departure to achieve the best results.
Bladder and Bowel notes that individuals with stress incontinence should avoid high-impact exercises, such as running and jumping. These activities can increase abdominal pressure, leading to leaks. Instead, low-impact exercises like walking and swimming may pose fewer issues and are better suited for managing symptoms.
Travel with Confidence: Embrace New Adventures
Managing stress urinary incontinence while traveling doesn’t have to be a barrier to adventure. Remember, the goal is to embrace your travels fully, enjoying each moment without the worry of incontinence overshadowing your experiences. With the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate your journey with ease, allowing you to create lasting memories and discover new horizons.