Urinary incontinence is a common condition, particularly among the elderly, according to Medline Plus. The affected person may suffer with full-blown episodes of wetting or minor leakages that occur with coughing or sneezing. In either case, embarrassment and discomfort are likely. The good news is, behavioral modifications for urinary incontinence can help a person reduce incontinence and even regain bladder control.
Bladder Training
Bladder training can be used as a sole treatment approach or in conjunction with other behavioral modifications for urinary incontinence. The method requires the incontinent person to delay urination for increasing amounts of time to help train the bladder. A person might begin by holding urine for just 10 minutes after the urge arises, with the goal of lengthening the time between bathroom trips to two to four hours, according to MayoClinic.com. Another type of bladder training requires the individual to empty his bladder several times within a few minutes -- double voiding. This method helps people who experience overflow incontinence, a condition that affects men with enlarged prostate and causes continuous bladder leakage as the urge to urinate does not arise.
Dietary Modifications
Some people can attribute their incontinence to dietary habits. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages stimulate the bladder and have a diuretic effect, causing sudden and sometimes uncontrollable urges to urinate. MayoClinic.com says that modifying your daily habits and cutting back on potentially problematic foods and beverages may help some people regain control of their bladder.
Weight Loss
Reduced episodes of urinary incontinence are among the many health improvements that weight loss offers, according to a study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. Because obesity increases incontinence risks, losing even a moderate amount of weight is proven to help people regain bladder control and may even prevent bladder problems altogether. A doctor can recommend dietary changes and exercise routines for those who desire to lose weight.
Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises target the pelvic floor muscles -- those responsible for holding urine in the bladder. A person can squeeze the muscles by imagining he is stopping urination. Men may feel their penis pulling in slightly, while women may need to examine themselves in a mirror to confirm they are contracting the correct muscles. Dr. J. Glenn Bradley, an editorial adviser for OBGYN.net, says that when properly performed, Kegel exercises reduce the need for surgery for stress incontinence by as much as a 75 percent. People who are uncertain as to how or how often to do the exercises should consult their doctor for advice.
