Urinary incontinence is a common problem for many older women.
Frequent, uncontrolled leaking of urine from the bladder causes many women to avoid activities that were once enjoyable, including exercise and sex. The latter, known as Kegel exercises, involve strengthening weakened pelvic muscles by contracting and releasing them. When I examine a patient, part of that examination involves seeing whether they can isolate the pelvic floor and contract those muscles, and, if they're able to do that, I have some written instructions, and I give them some little techniques to help them remember to do the exercises. Franke says simple, self-adhesive notes left on the dashboard of your car or on your TV can be a big help. A new study from Norway shows that the exercises help women get back to doing social or physical activities that they enjoy.