Here at Lily Bird we like to bring in the heavy hitters so you all get expertise and advice from the best of the best. That’s because telling your bladder who’s boss is better as a team sport. This week’s article is from our friends at the National Center for Continence. Thanks to Sarah for the collaboration. ______________ Talking about incontinence is hard. Like, really hard. We understand that it can be embarrassing to bring up. But if there’s anyone who understands, it’s your doctor. She has likely counseled many women before you and knows the toll unexpected leaks can take. So it’s time to put your fears aside and…
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Strong Armstrong: When Your Pelvic Floor Goes Hypertonic
Around here we talk a lot about pelvic floors being loosey goosey. So would you believe me if I told you that your pelvic floor can become too tight? Turns out, it’s pretty darn possible. You might hear it called pelvic floor hypertonia or a hypertonic pelvic floor. I know we’re always told to practice our Kegels so we can snapback, but sometimes the desired snapback is actually a clap back. When The Snapback Goes Wrong If you deal with the occasional spritz, you’ve probably been told or read somewhere that you should try Kegels. Next thing you know you’re doing Kegels everywhere. You’re secretly squeezing your pelvic floor muscles…
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Diabetes & Leaks: Connecting Sugar And Spritz
Some health issues seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. But a lot less delicious, of course. And bladder leaks are no different. If you need to know where the bathroom is everywhere you go or are you barely making it to the bathroom once you get the urge and you also have diabetes, you’re not alone. There is a connection between diabetes and incontinence. While the exact link between the two is unknown, I’ll shed some light on some possible reasons why leakage is more common for diabetics. What is Diabetes? Did you know that there are several types of diabetes? When most people talk about diabetes,…
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An Unlikely Audience: Our Littles
Here at Lily Bird, we feature personal stories written by smarty pants women from our community. That’s because telling your bladder who’s boss is better as a team sport. These women get you. They’re in your corner. And they’re here to remind you that your body isn’t broken. Hey, bodies age, bladders leak, and movie sequels bomb. Right? This week Lindsay’s here to combat the stigma around leaks by talking to an unlikely audience…our kids. Take it away, Lindsay. _____________ “Mom, why do you cross your legs every time you sneeze?” my 5-year-old daughter asked innocently. Is it that obvious?, I wondered silently to myself. My daughter doesn’t miss a…
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Anxiety and Leaks: Keep Calm and Carry-On
I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “I was so scared I almost peed my pants” or the infamous, “that scared the poop (you know the other word) out of me!” Turns out, the sayings are quite literal. There is an interesting relationship between anxiety and leaks. Not only does anxiety turn on your sprinkler systems, but leaks can amp up your anxiety and cause you to leak MORE. Talk about a double whammy. So at this point, you’re probably wondering why being anxious or stressed gives you the urge to go. Relax your pelvic floor as I uncover what leaks and anxiety have to do with each other. We’re Scared…
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Pour A Little Sugar On
The holidays are here. Welcome to the season awkward family photos and sugar filled delights like cranberry sauce and fudge. While those sugary snacks sure are delicious, sugar and other sweeteners can irritate your bladder and lead to leaks. We’ve got the scoop on all things sweet and leaky. It’s All The Same To Your Bladder Going down the aisles at your grocery store, you’ll likely see a lot of different kinds of sweeteners. From “all natural” or “replacement” sugars to the kind of artificial sweeteners that have been around for decades. As far as your bladder is concerned, there’s no difference between these sweeteners. Some studies even show that…
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Backed Up & Bothered: Constipation & Leaks
If you’re reading this, then chances are you’ve experienced what it feels like to be backed up. The abdominal discomfort, physiological distress, and the urge to let go of what’s been holding you back. Yes, that’s constipation for you. However, that’s not all it brings with it. Have you ever noticed that leaks are more common when you’re stopped up? Or that it’s more difficult to poop when you’re on incontinence drugs? Let’s get down to how and why constipation and bladder leaks are connected. When you know better, you do-do better. Too soon? Clogged Pipes: What’s Up With Constipation? The official definition of constipation is having fewer than three…
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Entering The Void: Double Voiding
When it comes to pesky spritz and sprinkles (a.k.a. incontinence), some of us women feel like we need to go to the bathroom all the time – even after just having been there. This can be frustrating and sometimes embarrassing if, after leaving the bathroom, you feel the need to go right back in. Have you ever left the table at a restaurant to use the bathroom, only to realize you need to pee again after going back to the table? (And when you just want to eat the pizza while it’s hot?). It’s understandable, but a little awkward. Good news: we’re here to give awkward a way forward. Welcome…
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What’s Hormones Got To Do With It?
Oh, hormones. The signaling molecules that not only influence our mood and behavior but also regulate certain cells and tissues. To put it simply, hormones pack a lot of punch. Have you ever felt cranky and couldn’t put your finger on why? Do you ever find yourself craving chocolate during certain times of the month? And have you ever noticed that leaks are more common during one part of your cycle over the other? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you can chock it up to your hormones. Let’s dive in to what hormones have to do with incontinence. Hormones and Your Pelvic Floor As you…
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When Your Baby Bump Comes With Unexpected Sprinkles
Pregnancy can be overwhelming. In between practicing breathing exercises, getting registered at Target, and marking name books comes lots of changes. And while we mamas love to share stories and tips about getting ready for baby, we aren’t very good at having real talk about changes to us. Specifically, physical changes to our bodies. Oh, yeah. We’re going there. So, your pea in the pod has brought on another kind of pee? Good news – you’re not the only one! Below, you’ll find an in-depth and honest guide to bladder leaks (i.e. incontinence) while you’re pregnant and after you’ve given birth. You’re In Good Company One of the most common…
