How medicines fit in

Many people find that making some changes to their lifestyle can bring their bladder problems under control. But if lifestyle changes don't do the trick, your doctor may suggest medication to help you manage your symptoms. What he or she recommends will depend on the kind of bladder problems you're experiencing.

For overactive bladder (urge incontinence) - one of the most common type of medicines prescribed for overactive bladder are known as anticholinergics. They can help calm the bladder muscle that causes frequent, sudden urges in order to help improve your bladder control.

For stress incontinence - Estrogen has been shown to help women who are experiencing stress incontinence, and some anti-depressants are used by some doctors to try and stop the bladder from contracting and make the bladder muscles better at holding in your urine.

Your doctor or continence advisor will help you decide if any of these options is appropriate for you. Whatever you choose, you can maximise the effectiveness of the medication by also making those all-important changes to your lifestyle and eating habits.