Urogynaecological physiotherapy for female urinary incontinence. Episode 94

Urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a problem that affects even 30% women, but it still remains a taboo subject. It is often associated only with the menopause and the ageing process, but in fact it can occur at any age even in young women. As the guest of the episode emphasises - urinary incontinence is not just a matter of weakened pelvic floor muscles.

In younger women, the problem is more often their excessive tension, which leads to bladder dysfunction. In addition, many daily habits, such as inappropriate urination, chronic intimate infections or unconscious overloading of the pelvic muscles, can increase the risk of this condition

Symptoms of urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence can take many forms and is not always immediately obvious. As emphasised by Kamila Grabek, even letting in a few drops during coughing, laughing or physical activity is a signal that should not be underestimated. Frequent urging on the bladder, ending with passing a small amount of urine, may indicate disorders of its capacity or tension of the pelvic floor muscles. The problem affects not only menopausal women, but is also increasingly common in young girls.

In addition to incontinence, painful intercourse, difficulty in applying tampons or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis may also be of concern. Kamila Grabek points out that such symptoms may indicate organ decline or vascular problems. Also, painful menstruation, although often underestimated, is not the norm and may signal a pelvic floor disorder. Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy can effectively improve comfort and prevent the problem from worsening.

What does a visit to a urogynaecological physiotherapist look like?

Diagnosis of pelvic floor problems starts with a detailed interview, which takes about 15-20 minutes. As Kamila Grabek explains, the questions concern not only incontinence, but also toilet habits, physical activity and lifestyle. The physiotherapist then proceeds to the examination in the supine position, assessing muscle tone and function using a finger in a gloved hand with gel. He or she also checks hip mobility, diaphragmatic breathing and muscle response to coughing, which helps to assess their ability to maintain tension.

In some cases, the diagnosis is supported by biofeedback or electrostimulation, which accurately measure muscle activity. On the basis of the examination, the patient is given an individualised exercise plan, including tightening and relaxing the pelvic floor.

Can urinary incontinence be prevented? Prevention and daily habits

In addition to treatment, it is worth remembering that incontinence can be prevented by taking care of correct habits. Kamila Grabek draws attention to several important principles: regular physical activity, avoiding pushing when urinating and adopting the correct position on the toilet. For example, the popular 'Malysz peeing', i.e. hovering over the toilet seat, causes tension in the pelvic floor muscles, which in the long run may lead to their dysfunction.

Another mistake is to go to the toilet 'to spare' frequently, which can reduce the capacity of the bladder and make it cry out to empty even a small amount of urine. In turn, urinating too infrequently promotes urinary tract infections. Adequate hydration and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder, are also key. Being aware of these simple rules can help to maintain urinary health and avoid future problems.

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