Does Every One Become Slightly Incontinent as They Age?

The aging process can bring about a variety of health challenges, one of which is incontinence. At 79, I can still hold my urine for at least 8 hours, which is a testament that not everyone experiences this issue as they age, provided they take the right measures to maintain their urinary health.

Common Causes of Incontinence

Unfortunately, incontinence is often a result of depleted hormones and muscle tissue that surrounds, supports, and controls the urinary and pelvic systems. This is particularly common in women who may experience a decline in female hormones like estrogen. Additionally, the weakening of pelvic muscles can also contribute to incontinence. However, there are ways to mitigate this issue.

Treatment and Prevention

Several methods can be employed to prevent and cure incontinence, including:

Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises are effective for both genders. They help strengthen the pelvic muscles, which can alleviate the symptoms of incontinence. These exercises involve contracting and releasing the muscles used to stop urine flow. Regular practice can lead to significant improvement in urinary control.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFT) is an excellent way to identify which muscles need strengthening and which need releasing. This can be done through a series of sessions, which often provide long-term benefits in preventing and curing incontinence caused by weak or aging pelvic muscles.

Hormone Therapy

For those experiencing hormonal changes due to aging, hormone therapy can be beneficial. Estrogen tablets, rings, or inserts can be directly applied to the vaginal area to help maintain hormone levels, thereby supporting the pelvic system. This can help alleviate symptoms of incontinence.

Addressing the Misuse of Medical Devices

Unfortunately, not all devices or medical procedures are created equal. There are cases where unethical practices have led to severe complications. For example, a lawsuit is currently ongoing against a drug company that used an inferior product of mesh in a surgery meant to help with incontinence. This mesh has tangled in women's organs and caused significant harm. On the other hand, there are newer surgical methods that have shown promise. One such method involves removing the uterus in post-menopausal women and attaching the uterine ligaments to the bladder. This procedure has successfully raised the bladder, addressing the incontinence issue.

In conclusion, while the aging process can bring about certain health concerns like incontinence, there are indeed solutions available. Regular pelvic floor exercises, proper hormone management, and ethical medical practices can help maintain urinary health and prevent the onset of incontinence. By taking proactive measures, individuals can enjoy a more comfortable and healthier life as they age.