Are You In The Bladder Health 'Hinterland?'

As much as we might want to deal with it, starting our pathway to better bladder health can feel a bit daunting. What if it doesn’t work out? Will it cost a lot? Will it be time consuming? Starting something new can be exciting but it can also throw up a lot of mental challenges, as well as physical and these can easily become blocks to better health. 

We’ve put together five ‘blocks’ that we often see amongst our wider community to help you move through the ‘bladder health hinterland’ and start the new year with a plan to tackle leaks and ease your bladder woes:

Block 1: "I don't know how to do pelvic floor exercises."

Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, are often recommended - but what if you don’t know how to do them?!, If no one’s ever explained them properly, you might wonder, "Am I even doing them right?” 

Let’s solve it: Here’s how to properly do your pelvic floor exercises - and we promise, it’s easier than you think! First, locate your pelvic floor muscles by stopping the flow of urine midstream (but don’t make this a habit). Once you’ve identified the muscles, practice squeezing and lifting them as though you’re trying to stop yourself from passing gas. Hold for a count of three, then release. Gradually work up to 10 repetitions, three times a day. If you’re unsure, apps or our guide can provide extra clarity, and if you are really struggling a referral to a women’s health physiotherapist will help, too.

Block 2: "I'm worried it won't work – and then what happens?"

Taking steps towards better bladder health can feel risky if you’re unsure of the outcome. What if nothing changes? What if it’s all for nothing?

Solution: When we’ve put up with something for a while, it can start to feel ‘normal’ and the unknown can feel too risky to contemplate. Setting some small goals can help - but pick something that’s realistic and manageable. Having a bench mark of when you will seek further help can be a good idea too. Start with easy changes, such as reducing caffeine and working out your dietary triggers. It’s a good idea to keep a bladder health journal, too - this will help you reflect on how far you’ve come. 

Block 3: "I'll never remember to take Jude Supplements."

It’s true, consistency is important when starting any supplementation routine. But the benefits speak for themselves: Jude’s Bladder Control supplements are proven to improve leaks and urgency by up to 67%, and the urge to pee during the night (known as nocturia) by 70%. Remembering to take them though is challenging for many people - especially as we get older. 

Solution: The easiest way to remember to take your supplements is to ‘tag’ taking them onto everyday habits. Perhaps after brushing your teeth, or with your first cup of tea - or if you prefer to take them before you go to sleep, try taking up a glass of water as a reminder. 

Block 4: "I don't want to change what I eat and drink."

We get it - finding out that some of your favourite foods are likely to be the root cause of your bladder issues can be disheartening. Chocolate, spicy foods, citrus may all be some of the things you love to include in your diet and bring you a lot of pleasure. 

Solution: It’s not about eliminating everything you love. Instead, try a "bladder diary" for a week to spot any patterns between what you consume and how you feel. From there, consider making small adjustments, like swapping that second coffee for a decaf or having one less glass of wine in the evening. Minor tweaks can make a big difference, and you don’t have to overhaul your diet to start seeing improvements.

Block 5: "It's just part and parcel of having children and getting older."

Many of us have been told that bladder issues are an inevitable consequence of childbirth or ageing, leading to a sense of resignation. There’s a particular normalisation around childbirth and motherhood, and ageing that can affect the way we think about bladder leaks and urgency - but they can be treated and you don’t have to put up with them as part of these life stages. 

Solution: While life events like pregnancy and menopause can impact bladder health, it’s not something we have to accept as unchangeable. Pelvic floor exercises, bladder training techniques, and seeking expert advice can all help. Whether your symptoms are mild or more significant, there are effective ways to improve your quality of life. Don’t let outdated beliefs stop you from exploring options that work for you!

Jude’s clinically proven supplements give you better bladder and pelvic floor control, helping you sleep through the night and regain the freedom to live life on your own terms. With just one capsule morning and night, you'll have relief from need-to-go urgency in just 12 weeks.