Bladder training is a first-line therapy for urge (UUI) and mixed incontinence (MUI), overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) , which is a behavioral therapy.
When can you start bladder training?
- after the physician has ruled out the possibility of a urinary tract infection
- after a pelvic specialist physiotherapist or urogynecologist has determined that the sphincter muscles are consciously working well
- after writing a urine diary for at least 3 days both day and night
The urination diary can be downloaded from here: https://www.yourpelvicfloor.org/media/Bladder_Diary-5.pdf
For which symptoms can bladder training be used?
- in case of frequent urge to urinate
We talk about frequent urination if we go to the bathroom more than 7-8 times a day.
- in case of an urgent urge to urinate
- for urge urinary incontinence, which is accompanied by an urgent urge to urinate
What does bladder training help with?
Bladder training contributes to improving control over the bladder, reducing bad urination habits and regulating fluid consumption. Its purpose is to increase the time between urinations, reduce the number of urinations and increase the capacity of the bladder. Bladder training can also be used effectively in addition to medicine treatment.
How do we perform bladder training?
- we only do it during the day, no need at night
- for 3-4 days go to the bathroom at intervals established by the specialist or physiotherapist based on the urination diary (start with +10-15 minutes compared to the original duration)
- don’t rush to the bathroom, even if you have a strong urge to urinate ahead of time, instead try to relax, start an activity or concentrate on your breathing
- After 3-4 days, the duration can be increased again by 10-15 minutes, if no involuntary urine dripping or leakage has occurred
- increase the time between urinations until the elapsed time between two urinations reaches approx. the length of the 3 hours
- do not drink large amounts of liquid 2 hours before going to bed
- complement bladder training with pelvic floor training
When can we feel effectiveness?
- Patience and persistence are required, the effectiveness of the training may take 6-12 weeks.
What should we do at the end of bladder training?
- keeping a urine diary for at least 3 days
- to go back to the attending physician and/or physiotherapist with the urination diary
You can read more information about bladder training on the website of the International Urogynecological Association:
https://www.yourpelvicfloor.org/media/Bladder_Training_RV2.pdf