When the holiday season is near, it’s time to navigate the Christmas planning and stress that the season brings. As many of us are unable to plan ahead due to the COVID-19 pandemic and may not be able to see our families or friends to celebrate, this year may be even more difficult. We understand that managing issues around bladder weakness can be challenging and handling it, especially during such an unusual festive season, can be even more challenging. Here are some tips that might be helpful for you in case you struggle with bladder weakness in winter:  

Managing Bladder Weakness in Winter when Planning Your Festivities at Home… 

DO share responsibilities

If you’re able to meet in person this year, planning a festive celebration can be overwhelming, especially if you have bladder weakness to manage. Instead of organising everything yourself, ask friends and family members within your support bubble to pitch in a dish or dessert. And when looking for gifts to pop under the tree, ask others for gift ideas instead of trying to guess. Maybe you could even ask family members to come up with a wishlist or do a Secret Santa, as finances may be difficult this year due to the pandemic. It may not be possible to see all your family this year, so make sure to plan time in advance to send parcels. If you are in ‘at risk’ category, make sure to ask friends and family in your support bubble to help buy packaging, wrapping paper and actually send out the presents.  

DON’T put unnecessary strain on your body 

Bodily strain comes in many forms: heavy physical activity, physical stress from illness, and mental stress can quickly drain our energy. With bladder weakness in winter, high stress levels may lead to more leaks and unforeseen accidents. Minimize stress this season by avoiding or limiting travel (if it’s possible) and not going overboard with decorations. It’s the thought – not the work – that counts. 

If You’re Able to Travel Domestically This Holiday Season 

iD, of course, recommends that you follow the guidelines set by your local government with regard to travel, meeting with others and social distancing. If you are planning some domestic travel, preferably to a holiday property or somewhere remote where you can easily socially distance and avoid risks, here are a couple of tips to bear in mind:  

DO pack extra protection wear 

Bring enough supplies so that you can change at least once every 4-6 hours¹ and don’t forget to pack moisturiser to keep you comfortable on-the-go. 

DON’T skip toilet breaks 

The stress of winter travel can make your journey all about going from point A to point B. But holding your bladder may result in more leaks, as well as urinary tract infections (UTIs). In the midst of heavy traffic and delayed trains, take time to plan regular trips to the toilet. Apps like Flush and SitOrSquat can help you find clean, well-equipped toilets all over the world (though bear in mind that some public toilets are shut at the moment)². Meanwhile, traffic apps like Waze work to help you avoid traffic and travel efficiently, whenever possible.   

How to Manage Bladder Weakness in Winter while Celebrating… 

DO keep your diet bladder-friendly 

Elaborate holiday dinners may include some alcohol, carbonated drinks or even sometimes spicy food, etc., however these may irritate your bladder. When possible, fill your plate with low-acid vegetables, grains and other whole foods. Making these bladder-friendly choices will help you enjoy the festivities with minimal leaks. It’s also worth limiting the amount of caffeine you consume (tempting as it is when the celebrations go on into the night); try swapping a cup of coffee for a nice milky hot chocolate, as milk may lessen your symptoms³. 

DON’T forget to hydrate 

During the hustle and bustle of the winter holidays, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. For people with bladder weakness, water is essential for avoiding urges and leaks, as well as preventing UTIs⁴. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day.  

With a wide range of dermatologist-tested products, we aim to provide discreet solutions for your winter celebrations. Click here to explore our line, designed to give you a life in full view.

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¹ „How Often Should I Change My Incontinence Pad?“ Holistic Incontinence, 2. Mai 2019. Quelle: https://www.holisticincontinence.com.au/blogs/news/how-often-should-i-change-my-incontinence-pad#:~:targetText=If%20you%20use%20incontinence%20pads,4%2D6%20times%20a%20day.&targetText=You%20should%20always%20change%20an%20incontinence%20pad%20when%20it%20is%20wet.

² „The Best Bathroom Locator Apps.“ National Association for Continence, 26. Feb. 2018. Quelle: https://www.nafc.org/bhealth-blog/the-best-bathroom-locator-apps

³ „Soothe bladder pain with these foods“, Urology Specialists of Georgia, 22. Juni 2015, Quelle: https://www.usofga.com/general/soothe-bladder-pain/

⁴ „Incontinence – Prevention Tips“ Better Health Australia, ohne Datum. Quelle: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/incontinence-prevention-tips