Is there any point going to the doctor with stress incontinence?

[potatofactory]

Can't believe I'm here! I have two kids - the second was massive (!) Pretty significant damage with each. I now have to concentrate whilst sneezing, but - more - cannot run at all. I'm very keen to get fit and have always used running - bit an option. Can the doc do anything?

NOT an option - sorry for typo

Yes, refer you to a specialist physio who can advise you on liquids management and give you exercises to make things better.

I speak as someone who had to use pads throughout second pregnancy and for a year afterwards. The physio worked!

Yes, you need the referral PoppyWearer advises above. Try not to be fobbed off with advice to just do Pelvic Floor exercises, IMO you need (at a minimum) for the physio to ensure you are doing the exercises correctly and they have many other ways to help from there.

Ok - great, thanks so much! I have done a lot of pelvic floor type exercises, but they haven't seemed to help - are these different ?

thanks, BW - crossed post! So glad there are avenues I can take - don 't want to be here!

In my experience she was definitely able to identify that I wasn't doing the exercises quite correctly. I was doing a small squeeze and she showed how I should be engaging, using a whole host of other muscles as well.

Core exercise was the same but many other suggestions on variations to help things progress.

Then, as I say, there were many other options. But you really need to start with an appt with someone who really knows their stuff.

Good luck

Just thought by the way. I think my GP referred me to a gynae who then referred me to the physio as my family was not complete at that point so surgery was not an option and in fact probably not needed in my case (yet at least).

But that might be another avenue. Either way, I think not getting fobbed off at GP level is the key.

They can check you're doing them properly & give you aids to help if necessary. It will take months of doing them loads each day, every day for them to work but they really do in the end!

So appreciate your responses - will make an appointment - all ready not to be fobbed off - tomorrow. Thank you

I think there's an app for pelvic floor exercises ,but as I'm a basic Nokia phone ( not even a camera ) I have no further details

Good luck ,definitely agree with all above .

Running is not good. Stress on the joints and if your pelvic floor muscles are weak could cause prolapses due to impact from the ground.
Best to strengthen the Pelvic floor and your core muscles, as has been said.

Thanks all. I really want to run! But I REALLY don't want a prolapse....

I'll def go to docs - & investigate that app too.

It would be safer to run on a slightly bouncy surface like dry grass than hard ungiving concrete/asphalt.