Would you consider yourself a mother who can travel on the seat of her pants and wing it? Most would not because travelling with children, especially of different age groups is not easy.
A tantrum is always around the corner. Most people are amazed at a mother’s level of preparedness. However, how would travel change when she is diagnosed with an overactive bladder?
Also known as stress urinary incontinence, the Mayo Clinic states that an overactive bladder is the sudden urge to urinate. The urge can be pretty difficult to control. If you have this condition, your level of preparedness only needs to become more advanced.
This article will discuss four practical ways moms can enjoy travelling with their children despite an overactive bladder.
Consider Safe Treatments
Given the emotional distress that an overactive bladder can bring, start by managing the problem. This will ensure your trip does not get disrupted frequently, especially when you’re not in a position to find a bathroom nearby.
There are a couple of treatment options available, but not all are safe. For instance, one treatment option for this issue has been the vaginal mesh. It is a mesh-like surgical tool used to provide much-needed support to weakened bladder/pelvic floor muscles.
While that sounds good, this mesh has caused serious injuries due to a design defect. According to TorHoerman Law, these include mesh erosion, infection, bleeding, and severe pain.
As a result, the vaginal mesh lawsuit was filed against manufacturers like C.R. Bard, American Medical Systems, Boston Scientific Corp., etc. Thousands of cases have been reported to date.
Since the vaginal mesh is unreliable, you can try safer alternatives. Join in for a pelvic floor exercise class which will teach you ways to strengthen your bladder muscles. Use relevant medication or nerve stimulation techniques to alleviate the symptoms of incontinence.
Once you’ve started these treatments, wait at least a month or two before planning your next trip. This way, your bladder would have calmed down and strengthened a bit to enjoy a stress-free vacation with your children.
Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
When you’re travelling with kids of different ages, there’s not much room for spontaneity. With an overactive bladder in the picture, we would advise you to say no to unplanned travel.
Whether you’re going by flight or taking a road trip, it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully. In the case of the former, choose layovers so you have time to relieve yourself. Sitting for 12 to 15 hours in one stretch may be a bad idea.
Also, try to book an aisle seat towards the back of the flight. This will give you easier access to the lavatory should the need arise.
If it’s a road trip, you already have the advantage of stopping whenever you want. Determine to take periodic rest stops for bathroom breaks. You kids can feast on some refreshments in the meantime. Check whether the route you’re taking has enough gas stations, truck stops, or rest areas.
Since you have to make time for a few extra stops on the way, leave home early. Building in time for emergencies always pays off.
Carry Along All Your Important Supplies
Studies have found that the issue of an overactive bladder is usually prevalent among older women. However, it may happen earlier due to other reasons like childbirth.
Depending on the cause, one’s incontinence may be mild or severe. Accordingly, you need to carry all the important supplies. For instance, those with mild incontinence can carry along a few disposable sanitary pads.
Those with a more severe problem can pack special underwear designed for incontinence. Make sure you have these supplies in your carry-on as well. It will help in case of any luggage delays at the gate.
Also, think about the supplies you will need once you’ve reached your destination. Perhaps bed protection, disposable liners for products, and lotions may be required. Finally, don’t forget to carry an extra change of clothes in case an accident does occur.
The last thing you want is to deal with a screaming toddler and wet pants at the same time. You can put the soiled pair inside a Ziploc bag. Also, don’t forget to pack some games your kids enjoy. These may be the only solution to pacify a bored toddler or an irritated teen.
Manage Your Liquid Intake Carefully
Just like you must plan for bathroom breaks, it’s equally important to time your liquid intake. The UCI Department of Urology states that too much liquid intake would translate into too many bathroom breaks.
The symptoms will get aggravated if you consume any beverage that irritates the bladder. This does not mean you must consume very little liquids either. That could lead to potential kidney problems because the urine becomes concentrated and acidic.
It’s best to work with a healthcare provider to find out the right amount of water for your specific issue. In general, limit your liquid intake to a few hours before the flight. This will help you get through the first leg of your journey smoothly.
In other words, pass over the beverage cart inside the flight. Otherwise, you may have to double your frequency of restroom breaks.
Did you know that nearly 40% of American women struggle with incontinence symptoms? It’s increasingly becoming a common issue in our country.
While there may not be a guaranteed permanent cure now, you can manage symptoms. That along with careful planning will help you enjoy a stress-free vacation with your little ones.
DISCLOSURE – This is a collaborative post.
