This question arises as many individuals, primarily women, suffer from this condition. A recent study offers accessible alternatives.
Researchers from the University of California in San Francisco and Stanford Medicine examined this issue. Their study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, reveals significant results.
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Their research focused on 240 women, aged 45 to 90, suffering from urinary incontinence. After 12 weeks, participants who attended yoga classes experienced a 65% reduction in incontinence episodes. A control group practicing strength and stretching exercises achieved similar results.
The yoga sessions, which were based on 16 postures, aimed to strengthen the pelvic floor. In contrast, the physical conditioning exercises focused on general movements without specifically targeting the pelvic floor. Participants also recorded their leakage episodes, whether due to urge incontinence or stress incontinence.
The format of the study evolved with the pandemic, with classes adapted to videoconferencing. The results show that both groups significantly improved their quality of life. Incontinence, often considered a taboo subject, deserves to be discussed to better understand treatment options.
One of the researchers, Dr. Leslee Subak, emphasizes the importance of physical activity for general well-being. She notes that the research aims to provide accessible solutions without requiring medical supervision.
Other non-surgical treatments, such as medications, also show results, but generally inferior to those observed with yoga or exercises. The practicality and cost-effectiveness of these methods are major advantages.
The message is clear: staying active is beneficial. Whether through yoga or other forms of exercise, these practices can have a positive impact on incontinence. Thus, choosing an appropriate activity could contribute to a more peaceful life.
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of urine, a common phenomenon especially among women, particularly as they age. This condition can be linked to a weakening of the pelvic floor, which supports the bladder. It can manifest either through a sudden urge to urinate (urge incontinence) or during pressure on the abdomen (stress incontinence), such as when coughing.
There are two main types of incontinence: stress incontinence, triggered by abdominal pressure (coughing, laughing), and urge incontinence, caused by an overactive bladder. Risk factors include age, childbirth, menopause, and certain diseases. These causes can weaken the pelvic floor muscles.