Have you ever leaked when you sneeze, laugh, trying to lift something heavy, or while exercising?
You are not alone.
This is what’s called Stress Urinary Incontinence, and it can occur to women of any age—after pregnancy, loss of pelvic tone, exercising too strenuously, or even certain postures—the downward dog yoga pose is particularly notorious.
The moment may feel embarassing, but according to Dr. Jessica Shepherd, an OB/GYN and women’s health expert, “women shouldn’t feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk about their pelvic floor issues.” In fact, up to 35% of Canadian women has experienced this issue.
She explains that Stress Urinary Incontinence can be caused by a number of reasons, including weakened muscles and over-tightened muscles. Menopausal women with decreased estrogen level may become more susceptible as well. There are modalities and treatments, even medications that can help minimize the occurrence. These may require repeated regular visit to the doctor’s office, and you can talk to your family doctor to learn more.
Dr. Shepherd also suggests women to look into lifestyle and things you can do at home that may help. For example, some yoga poses can help strengthen your pelvic muscles. Try chair pose, triangle pose and square pose.
There is also an at-home personal care device called Tightra, which uses radio frequency, a medically proven technology that helps reduce urinary incontinence and other intimate-health-related issues. The radio frequency is transformed into heat energy that stimulates the cells, resulting in the increased formation and construction of collagen and elastin fibres. Collagen and elastin will help to strengthen your pelvic floor allowing more control over the feeling of bladder urgency and leaks. The concept is similar to facial treatments where radio frequency is used for lifting and rejuvenating effects. It is painless, and zero recovery time required.
In terms of safety, Tightra is cleared by Health Canada. There are 16 built-in heat sensors that continuously monitor the temperature of the skin during use. A Touch Sensor ensures the device is only active when proper skin contact is achieved. Plus, the auto shut-off function automatically switches the device off after 20 minutes, the recommended treatment duration.
To begin the treatment, you just need to use the device three times a week for four weeks. You can do it yourself in complete privacy and at anytime that is convenient for you. Once your condition has improved, you can use one time every few weeks, as needed, just as maintenance.
“Tightra is a safe, easy to use device that can be used in your home,” says Dr. Shepherd. “I am glad we can start the conversation and empower you to take control.”
