Why Young Women?
Young women today have more sexual freedom than any generation before them. Although we have learnt so much regarding pregnancy, HIV, STDs, and the importance of using condoms, there will always be health issues to be aware of.
Sex with a partner brings you into contact with different bacteria, not always bad, but certainly bacteria which are foreign to our bodies. Our bodies can react to these bacteria, resulting in bladder and urinary tract infections, which can affect bladder control in women.
Combine these bacteria with a dehydrated body and irritated bladder from the alcohol of a fun night out, and the risk of infection dramatically increases.
Obesity, illness, constipation, and various medication can also bring on bladder loss in young women.
Be sure to talk to your doctor or health care professional as they will help you determine the cause of your bladder weakness and ways in which you can control and improve your condition.
See our Nutrition and Lifestyle Tips below to help Young Women manage and control bladder weakness.
Nutrition & Lifestyle Tips
It might not be sexy but…
After sexual intercourse, go to the bathroom and urinate. This flushes the bacteria that may have been pushed into your urethra out, which may prevent an infection. Properly clean the area around the urethra.
Food rules
Certain foods and drinks can irritate bladders. Citrus fruits, tomatoes or hot spices may have this effect on you. Try keeping a bladder diary to see which ones may be affecting your bladder weakness.
One glass too many
Alcohol and Caffeine can seem to be essentials in a career girl's life. But as well as dehydrating the body by making more urine, they can also irritate the bladder making you want to urinate before you need to. Ensure you drink plenty of water, both at work and at play. A good measure is for every coffee or alcohol drink, match it with one glass of water. Your bladder (and head) will thank you for it.
Eat well
Eat a wide variety of nutritious foods, including fibre for a healthy bowel, protein for muscle repair and drink plenty of water (1.5 litres a day) to keep your system flushed. People who eat a variety of food are generally healthier, live longer and have a reduced risk of developing illnesses such as diabetes (a major cause of bladder weakness).
Take care, down there Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement and wash the genital area after each bath or shower.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified health care professional with any questions regarding your concerns.
