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Incontinence is a topic that is not often discussed because of the stigma around it, let's get over the embarrassment and learn 10 myths about incontinence to help inform you on the truth of incontinence.

Myth #1: Incontinence only impacts elderly people.

This is a common myth that older people are the only ones who develop incontinence but this is just not true, many people in their 90's and above still hold continence, and incontinence can be caused in many different ways. People in their 40's and 50's can develop incontinence and it can also be caused from childbirth or even a workplace accident.

Myth #2: Bladder problems are inevitable with ageing and/or childbirth

Although ageing and childbirth can cause bladder problems it does not mean it is guaranteed, many elderly people have full control over their bladders even at the age of 90+.

Myth #3: Not Many People Suffer From Incontinence:

While incontinence is not a common problem it does impact a large portion of people, in North America alone an estimated 25 Million people are impacted by incontinence.

Myth #4: It is normal for a small amount of leakage

This is a big misconception a lot of people have, even a small amount of leakage is not normal and if it continues could be a sign of a bigger problem.

Myth #5: Incontinence is only caused by being physically active. Like Jumping or running.

People can have many different types of triggers that can cause leakage, being active can cause leakage but is not the only cause of such. Many people report that they have leakage when they hear certain sounds or even having specific thoughts. For example hearing running water or drinking water, or even going out into the cold.

Myth #6: Drink less

This is one of the worst myths as it can actually cause harm to your body to not hydrate properly. It is actually recommended to drink more in short doses to help build up bladder control and it can also help control the odor of incontinence.

Myth #7: Incontinence rarely impacts men

This is simply not true, although women are more prone to incontinence it still affects a large amount of men. Many bladder issues and injuries can cause incontinence in men as well prostate problems, swelling or enlarging of the prostate or even prostate surgeries.

Myth #8: incontinence is not serious

Although to a degree incontinence is not serious it can be a sign of more serious health problems for example in men there could be issues with the prostate, or even in both men and women there could be more serious health issues. The best thing to do even though it might be a little embarrassing is to go and talk to your doctor about what is causing your incontinence and possible treatments, there are even drugs available to help with incontinence.

Myth #9: Kegel exercises are just for women

Although women have other benefits from performing kegel exercises we all have bladders no matter what gender. Kegel exercises are great for strengthening the bladder, which can help improve incontinence.

Myth #10: natural remedies do not work

There has been many studies that have shown that exercise and a good diet can help improve incontinence, as well adding more magnesium and vitamin D to your diet has shown improvement and can even help prevent incontinence.

Bonus: Use Sanitary napkins or pads to help manage incontinence

This is not recommended as the polymers used in these products are meant to help absorb blood and tissue. Incontinence specific products are developed with polymers to absorb urine and other liquids, and are often more absorbent for large amounts of liquid.

Lastly, many people think that you cannot do anything about incontinence, this is a huge problem as incontinence could be a sign of more serious health concerns. We understand it might be awkward but if you do experience incontinence please contact your health care professional so they can help provide you with proper treatments for this issue.