Overactive Bladder: Gaining Control Over Your Symptoms

Some people consider overactive bladder (OAB) to be a normal part of aging, but it’s not. Although OAB becomes more common as we age, its symptoms can be treated.

OAB is characterized by the presence of bothersome urinary symptoms, including urgency, frequency (8+ times per day), and/or urge incontinence (leakage).

If you are experiencing OAB symptoms, you are not alone. An estimated 20 million American women suffer from OAB. For some, symptoms are mild and may be frustrating but not inhibiting, but for others, OAB can affect every aspect of life including their work, social life, sexual relations and everyday activities.

Yet, despite how common and disruptive it is, more than 80 percent of women don't seek treatment. OAB is underreported, under-diagnosed, undertreated and often stigmatized.

In a recent survey to its online readership, HealthyWomen found that nearly half (47.4%) of the women surveyed who'd experienced symptoms of OAB said they had not talked to their health care professional about their symptoms.

The survey also revealed the variety of reasons why these women haven’t discussed their symptoms with a health care professional, including: because they haven't seen a health care professional since the symptoms started and don’t want to make an appointment just for this (25.5%); they don’t view OAB as a medical condition, but rather a natural part of aging (23.2%); they are too embarrassed to talk about it (11.1%); or they believe that nothing can be done about it (5.7%).

In fact, other research has shown that people with OAB wait an average of seven years before discussing their symptoms with their health care professionals.

So, what do women do, if not seek treatment? Many are employing coping strategies that range from social isolation and making sure a toilet is always nearby to using absorbent products and wearing dark clothing. But there are other options to treat and alleviate symptoms, including behavioral therapy, medication and, in some cases, surgery.

The first step to successfully managing OAB is to understand and recognize your symptoms. To help determine if you have OAB, keep a three-day diary of what you eat and drink (including the volume of fluids), how often you go to the bathroom and how often you leak urine. Knowing your symptoms can help you better understand your triggers and explore treatment options. You can also choose to speak with your healthcare provider. If you do, it is important to communicate clearly and honestly.

OAB has no known cause; however, several things can affect it. If you think you may have OAB, it is important to educate yourself on the condition so you can determine the best course of action for you.

Behavioral Modifications

MSD Consumer Care, Inc., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., has paid for this article to be developed and has provided editorial input.