It can be extremely difficult to control urinary incontinence. Around 25 million people in the US struggle with bladder control, and it’s highly likely that the number is actually a lot higher since most people find it embarrassing to discuss with a medical professional. Many adults who struggle with incontinence tend to experience it during sleep, also known as nocturnal enuresis. This makes bedtime a rather stressful event—the worry of ruining the mattress, inconveniencing others, and having to remake the bed can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
From reducing your caffeine intake before bed to wearing washable incontinence underwear, here’s all you can do:
Protect your bed
It can be frustrating to have to change the sheets and wash them over and over. Invest in waterproof bed sheets and a washable underpad to make it easier to deal with any accidents.
No caffeine before going to sleep
Caffeine is associated with many bladder problems, so it’s best to try and stop taking it entirely. However, you should be particularly careful about avoiding caffeine before going to sleep. Not only does it keep you awake, but it can also increase the risk of an accident while you’re sleeping since it’s a diuretic and expels water from your body.
Limit your intake of fluids
Set a proper bedtime schedule and try not to drink any water at least 4 hours before that. If you’re extremely thirsty, you can try taking smaller sips of water instead of large gulps. Also, make sure to avoid citrus juices and alcoholic beverages since they’re more likely to increase the pressure on your bladder.
Use the bathroom more than once
Emptying your bladder more than once, also called “double-voiding” your bladder, can help you decrease the chances of having any major accidents during bedtime. This consists of emptying your bladder before you get ready for bed and then emptying it again before you lie down to get some sleep.
Start doing Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises will help you strengthen the muscles around your urethra and help you gain back some control over your nighttime accidents. These exercises involve relaxing and contracting the muscles surrounding the urethra. One way to start practicing is to try stopping your urine in the middle of you emptying your bladder. Once you’ve figured out how it’s done, you can start practicing different exercises to make your muscles stronger.
Get a bedwetting alarm
Bedwetting alarms are like sensors that can detect moisture. You place it under the sheets, and it makes a sound or vibrates if it senses any wetness. This can help you reach the toilet right in time to empty your bladder.
Buy incontinence underwear for women
No one likes to feel like they’re wearing a diaper, but an extra layer of protection can give you some peace of mind and help you control your urinary incontinence. You can add a pair of leak-proof washable incontinence underwear to ensure that your linens and clothes are clean while you enjoy a comfortable night of sleep. Simple Necessit-Ease is a top-notch protective undergarment company that uses organic materials to create leak-proof and period-proof underwear in a wide range of designs and styles.
Get in touch with us and place your orders today!