Stress incontinence and running - solved?

[CustardTart71]

After my post a couple of months ago, I graduated last week and I feel fantastic! Whilst I have taken some (but not all of the advice I was given) I have found that when <stick you fingers in your ears boys if you are sensitive> I am on my period I get very little/no stress incontinence when running. I am wondering if the menstrual cup I am using has anything to do it? I was pretty much bone dry today after challenging myself to run the full 5k (at graduation I was only running 4.3 or so). Anyone else had the same experience? Is there anyone medically minded that could advise if this is indicative of anything? Thanks.

[Grannyhugs Graduate]

Maybe your system saying this girl is doing great she deserves us to play fair for once 😉

[CustardTart71 in reply to Grannyhugs]

🤣 yeah now that would be cool 👍

[Tasha99 Graduate]

I’m on the mini pill so don’t get periods but I might get a cup and test it out 🤣

[CustardTart71 in reply to Tasha99]

I think I'm going to try it out when I'm not on as well .. see what happens 🤔

[Tasha99 Graduate in reply to CustardTart71]

🤣

[Langley-Loper Graduate]

I didn't see your original post, but yes, the inserted cup is supporting your probably prolapsed bladder neck and helping prevent the incontinence.

Using a large tampon can have a similar effect but is less hygienic as it's absorbent (beware toxic shock syndrome).

[Langley-Loper Graduate]

Oh, and there are surgical options if it becomes unbearable. I have a TVT (trans vaginal tape) to provide permanent support, the acceptable younger brother of outlawed mesh inserts. It's not a minor op though so don't rush to that solution lightly.

[CustardTart71 in reply to Langley-Loper]

Thanks - I had a feeling that it might be something like that as, when I used to work in the hospital, I have seen vaginal devices used in gynae to support prolapses. Under daily conditions I am dry, give or take the odd violent sneeze, so thankfully surgery not in the picture. 👍 For running it would just mean I could go back to a panty liner style pad, rather than the slightly larger one which I find rubs as it is a little too wide for my undies 🤣 I haven't used tampons for years, having moved to the Mooncup. Thanks for your reply x

[Fleetnot Graduate]

Hi, I used to run a continence clinic some time ago but anatomy doesn't change. Yes the cup may well help. There are other specific devices but they had variable success and I have no idea what current thinking is. Pelvic floor exercises can help maintain or improve problems. Some yoga/Pilates classes can focus on pelvic floor as well. Seeing a continence specialist nurse/ doc is also a good idea for specific advice if you haven't already done so. They will usually be keen to avoid surgery if there are other options. It should be discussed more openly so well done you and isn't something we should just put up with.👍

[CustardTart71 in reply to Fleetnot]

Hi Fleetnot - thanks for your reply. I will have to set to with pelvic floor exercises ... squats have been suggested as being a good idea. I can do mid flow but I have been told it can upset your bladder. Is it ok as long as you aren't doing it every time you go to the loo? I find it difficult not figure which muscles I am using otherwise.

[Fleetnot Graduate]

Doing midflow stop is a bad idea as it can lead to infections and is bad for the bladder. Very occasionally for someone who has little or poor control as a way of measuring improvement. Putting 3rd finger in vagina and try to grip , they're the muscles you're going for. If no grip pelvic floor exercises +++.Have a look at urinary continence and pelvic floor exercises advice on nhs.uk site. Would copy links but beyond my ability!!

[CustardTart71 in reply to Fleetnot]

Thanks 👍