Urological Care

The pelvic floor plays a crucial role in supporting the bladder, bowel, and uterus in women. Pelvic floor stretches are a valuable tool for maintaining and improving pelvic floor health, particularly for women who may be experiencing issues such as Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Understanding the benefits of pelvic floor stretches and incorporating them into your routine can have a positive impact on bladder control and overall well-being.

Incorporating pelvic floor stretches into your daily routine can be a proactive step towards maintaining pelvic health and addressing SUI. Here are some gentle stretches to consider:

Pelvic Floor Stretches

Incorporating stretching exercises can effectively relax the pelvic floor muscles. Here are some common stretches:

Happy Baby Pose – Lying on your back, open your knees wide and pull them toward your head. Hold your legs with your arms on/behind your knees or at your ankles. You can also gently roll from side to side.

Child’s Pose – On your hands and knees, spread your knees wide, keep your toes touching, and lean forward gently, placing your upper body between your legs. Stretch your arms out in front of you.

Adductor Stretch (Lying Butterfly Pose) – Relax on your back with the bottoms of your feet together and let your knees relax out to the sides. You can place pillows under your knees for support if needed.

Seeking Professional Guidance

While pelvic floor stretches can be beneficial, it’s important to approach them mindfully, especially if you are dealing with pelvic floor issues or SUI. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a pelvic health physiotherapist, can provide personalized guidance and exercises tailored to your specific needs.

June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about various health issues that impact men. One common condition that affects a large number of men, particularly as they age, is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the prostate gland in men. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the tube through which urine flows. As men age, the prostate can gradually enlarge, squeezing the urethra and causing various urinary symptoms.

Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors:

While the exact cause of BPH is still not fully understood, hormonal imbalances and age-related changes are believed to play a significant role. Testosterone, the male hormone, and its conversion into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) have been implicated in the growth of prostate tissue. Additionally, advancing age and genetics can contribute to the development of BPH. Certain risk factors, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and a family history of the condition, may increase the likelihood of developing BPH.

Recognizing the Symptoms:

It’s essential for men to be aware of the common signs and symptoms associated with BPH. These can include:

• Frequent urination, especially during the night (nocturia)
• Difficulty initiating or maintaining a steady urine stream
• Weak urine flow or a sensation of incomplete emptying
• Urgency to urinate or a feeling of urgency that is difficult to control
• Dribbling at the end of urination
• The need to strain or push to start urination

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly. While BPH is generally non-cancerous, it’s important to rule out other potential prostate conditions, including prostate cancer.

Consider the following strategies to prompt prostate health and minimize the risk and severity of BPH:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

Engage in regular physical activity, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and manage stress effectively. These lifestyle choices can contribute to overall well-being, including prostate health.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking an adequate amount of water can help promote a healthy urinary system. Aim for at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water daily, or more if you are physically active or in a hot climate.

Limit Fluid Intake Before Bed:

Reducing your fluid intake a few hours before bedtime can help minimize nighttime urination, improving sleep quality.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine:

Both alcohol and caffeine can irritate the bladder and worsen urinary symptoms. Moderation is key.

Regular Check-ups:

Schedule routine check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your prostate health, especially if you are at an increased risk or experience symptoms.

Treatment Options:

If you are diagnosed with BPH and your symptoms significantly impact your quality of life, various treatment options are available. These can include medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.

Contact us or talk to your healthcare provider to help guide you in selecting the most appropriate treatment option based on your specific situation.

When it comes to urological health, many people think of it as a men’s issue. However, women can also face various urological problems that can have a significant impact on their overall health and quality of life. This National Women’s Health Week, we’re taking a closer look at women’s urological health, some of the conditions women may face and healthy practices you can take now to avoid the risk of developing urological issues.

What is Urological Health?

Urological health refers to the health of the urinary tract and the male and female reproductive systems. This includes the bladder, kidneys, ureters, urethra, prostate (in men), and ovaries, uterus, and vagina (in women).

Common Urological Conditions in Women

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – UTIs are one of the most common urological problems that women face. They occur when bacteria enter the urethra and cause an infection in the bladder. Symptoms of UTIs include frequent and painful urination, fever, and back pain. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, but it’s important to seek medical attention promptly as untreated UTIs can lead to serious complications.

Overactive Bladder – Overactive bladder is a condition where the bladder contracts involuntarily, causing a sudden and intense urge to urinate. This can lead to frequent urination, often more than eight times a day, and sometimes even at night. Overactive bladder can be treated with lifestyle changes, medication, or even surgery.

Incontinence – Incontinence is a condition where a person has difficulty controlling their bladder. This can lead to accidental leakage of urine or even complete loss of bladder control. Incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors, including childbirth, menopause, and nerve damage. Treatment options include pelvic floor exercises, medication, or surgery.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse – Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the pelvic organs become weak or damaged. This can cause the bladder, uterus, or rectum to bulge into the vaginal wall, leading to discomfort, pain, and incontinence. Treatment options include pelvic floor exercises, surgery, or the use of a pessary (a device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs).

Kidney Stones – Kidney stones are hard, mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Women are more likely to develop kidney stones than men, and risk factors include dehydration, obesity, and a diet high in salt and sugar. Treatment options include pain management, hydration, and in some cases, surgery.

Maintaining Urological Health

Maintaining urological health is important for women of all ages. Some tips for maintaining urological health include:

• Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Practicing good hygiene, especially around the genital area
• Urinating regularly and completely
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Exercising regularly, including pelvic floor exercises

Urological health is an important aspect of overall health for women. While many of the conditions that affect women’s urological health are common and treatable, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms arise. By maintaining healthy habits, women can reduce their risk of developing urological problems and maintain their overall health and quality of life.