Each November, we recognize Bladder Health Month. This is a time to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy bladder and to break the stigma around bladder-related conditions that affect millions of people worldwide.
Why Bladder Health Matters
Your bladder stores urine before it’s eliminated from your body. It plays a key role in your urinary system, which helps remove waste and maintain the body’s fluid balance. However, bladder health is often overlooked until problems arise.
Issues such as urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and bladder cancer can impact anyone, regardless of age or gender. According to the Urology Care Foundation, over 33 million Americans live with bladder symptoms, and millions experience incontinence.
Common Signs of Bladder Problems
It’s important to recognize when your bladder may need attention. Common warning signs include:
• Frequent urination or sudden urges to urinate
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in the urine
• Leaking urine when you laugh, cough, or exercise
• Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate
If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference.
Tips for a Healthy Bladder
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day (typically 6–8 glasses). The Cleveland Clinicrecommends the starting point of 100 ounces/12.5 cups (3.1 liters) for men and 73 ounces/9 cups (2.1 liters) for women. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, which can irritate the bladder.
2. Don’t Hold It Too Long
Holding urine for long periods can weaken your bladder muscles and increase the risk of infection. Try to urinate every 3–4 hours.
3. Eat a Bladder-Friendly Diet
Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals. Avoid excessive salt, spicy foods, and acidic items like citrus and tomatoes if they trigger irritation for you.
4. Stay Active
Regular exercise helps reduce pressure on the bladder and improve muscle control.
5. Do Pelvic Floor Exercises
Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and can help prevent leakage.
6. Quit Smoking
Smoking irritates the bladder and is the leading cause of bladder cancer due in part to the carcinogens found in cigarettes.
Breaking the Stigma
Talking about bladder health can feel uncomfortable but it shouldn’t be. Bladder problems are common and treatable, and raising awareness helps others seek the help they need. This Bladder Health Month, we encourage open conversations with your healthcare professionals about any bladder problems you may be experiencing.
Take Action This November
Clinical research and trials play a critical role in improving bladder care. These studies help scientists and doctors discover new treatments, medications, and procedures that advance our understanding of bladder conditions and offering hope to patients who may not have found relief through current options.
Learn more about our clinical trials that explore options for UTIs and incontinence. Currently Enrolling Studies | Seattle Clinical Research Center