Planning a trip is always filled with excitement – whether it’s packing your favorite outfits, mapping out your adventures, or dreaming about the destination. But if you’re dealing with incontinence, the thought of traveling can add an extra layer of stress. 

Incontinence refers to the unintentional leakage of urine. Often associated with embarrassment, it is a highly common condition among women.

Mayo Clinic notes that roughly 50% of adult women deal with it. The prevalence of this issue rises with age, with nearly 75% of women over 65 reporting urinary leakage.

Although a common issue, incontinence can still feel daunting, especially when you’re on the move. The good news is that with some thoughtful preparation, incontinence does’t have to put a damper on your plans. 

Today, we’ll share with you certain tips and tricks to make your next trip worry-free. So, let’s get started.

PACK YOUR CLOTHES ACCORDINGLY

Packing the right clothing can make all the difference when you’re dealing with incontinence while traveling. Not only does it ensure you’re comfortable throughout your trip, but it also helps prevent any potentially embarrassing moments.

First, avoid tight clothing. While snug outfits might look great, they can press against your bladder, potentially leading to leaks or discomfort. Opt for breathable, loose-fitting clothes instead. Think flowy skirts, relaxed trousers, or comfy dresses that give you room to move without added pressure.

When choosing your bottoms, lean towards darker colors – especially when it comes to trousers or skirts. Dark fabrics, like black or navy, can help disguise any unexpected leaks, unlike light colors that might reveal stains more easily.

Also, pack extra underwear and pants. Having backups means peace of mind, so you don’t have to worry about running out of clean clothes if an accident happens. Keep them in your carry-on or backpack for easy access.

Are incontinence pads helpful? 

Yes, they are helpful, especially on trips. For those who worry about the degradability of these pads, you also have an eco-friendly option now. In July 2024, Novamed launched Bamboo Light Incontinence Lady Pads. These biodegradable pads can absorb up to 550 mL of liquid and degrade within 125 days. 

MAP OUT THE TOILET FACILITIES ON YOUR ROUTE 

One of the smartest things you can do when traveling with incontinence is to map out toilet facilities along your route. Frequent bathroom breaks are essential for managing incontinence, as they help prevent your bladder from getting too full and reduce the chances of leaks. 

Knowing where the nearest restrooms are will not only keep you comfortable, but also give you peace of mind. This means fewer surprises and more confidence, so you can focus on the fun part of your trip.

Harvard Health highlights that mapping out your washroom options in advance is a simple process nowadays. There are many toilet locator apps available today. If you’re traveling across North America, Flush and Toilet Finder are great choices. 

Such facilities are also available in other countries. Take Australia, for instance. The Australian government has recently launched the National Public Toilet Map to help citizens and tourists locate public bathrooms with ease.

INFORM THE AIRLINE IN ADVANCE 

For women with incontinence, the thought of sitting in one place for hours on a flight can be nerve-wracking. The limited bathroom access, combined with the close quarters, can make it difficult to manage incontinence comfortably. However, a little proactive planning with the airline can make all the difference.

One helpful tip is to request early boarding. Getting on the plane ahead of the crowd allows you to calmly organize your continence products, clothing, and carry-on essentials without feeling rushed. You can discreetly arrange any extra underwear or pads in an easily accessible spot, so you won’t have to dig through your bag mid-flight.

Calling your airline ahead of time is key to making this happen. Most airlines are happy to accommodate requests for early boarding, especially when it involves a medical or personal need. 

A simple phone call can grant you extra time and space to settle in. It also takes away the possibility of anxiety, helping you feel more in control throughout your journey.

Which seat should people with incontinence book on a flight? 

If you’re someone dealing with incontinence boarding a flight, the aisle seat would be ideal for you. From this seat, you’ll have easy access to the washroom without having to disturb other passengers for the same.  

AVOID FOODS AND DRINKS THAT IRRITATE YOUR BLADDER

When you’re managing incontinence while traveling, what you eat and drink can make a big difference. The Cleveland Clinic notes that certain foods and beverages are known bladder irritants. Therefore, steering clear of them can help prevent discomfort or unexpected leaks during your travels. 

Some common culprits include caffeine (coffee, tea, and energy drinks), alcohol, spicy foods, acidic fruits like oranges and lemons, and even artificial sweeteners. These irritants can overstimulate your bladder, making it harder to control.

While it’s tempting to indulge in that extra cup of coffee to stay alert, avoiding such beverages will be your best bet. 

Instead, focus on staying hydrated with bladder-friendly fluids. Water is always a great option, but you can mix some herbal teas or coconut water for variety. Keeping hydrated is important for your overall well-being and helps prevent dehydration, which can actually make incontinence worse.

PLANNING A SURGICAL TREATMENT BEFORE THE TRIP? WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

If you’re considering surgical treatment for incontinence before your trip, it’s important to know the options available and weigh the pros and cons carefully. According to the National Health Service (NHS), some common surgical treatments include sling procedures and tape surgery or vaginal mesh surgery.

However, like all other surgeries, these come with their own risks, which you must know about beforehand. Take tape surgery, for instance. In the surgery, a vaginal mesh is inserted behind the urethra to support it to prevent any unintentional leak.

But these implants have recently been linked to medical complications like infection, pain, and erosion, notes TorHoerman Law. 

Women who have suffered these complications following their surgeries have filed a vaginal mesh lawsuit against the manufacturers in pursuit of compensation. Other procedures might have their drawbacks as well. Take a thorough look into the possible issues before you say yes to the surgical treatment of your incontinence. 

WHAT IS COLPOSUSPENSION?

Colposuspension is another surgical process to treat incontinence, notes NHS. It involves making a small cut in your lower tummy to lift the neck of your bladder. The neck is then stitched in the same position, offering support to prevent any involuntary leak. 

Incontinence doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying your travels. With a bit of preparation, you can embark on your journey feeling confident and in control. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a long-haul adventure, these tips can make managing incontinence easier and more discreet. 

---

Disclaimer :

The reproduction of any of the content, including the photographs without prior consent/permission of the writer, is strictly prohibited and a violation of the same will attract legal action.

Did you like the post? Follow me on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, and stay updated and notified about the latest posts.

For collaboration with My Travel Diary, reach out at [email protected]