If you have an on-going or undiagnosed problem with daytime wetting you should visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Why do I wet myself a bit when I laugh, sneeze or do energetic sports?
This is not an uncommon problem and it could be due to a weak pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is made up of layers of muscle, which stretch from the pubic bone at the front of your body, to the bottom of the spine at the back (like a hammock). The pelvic floor supports your bladder and bowel and stops urine leaking out.
Some people have what is called a ‘weak' pelvic floor, which may cause a little urine to leak out. A weak pelvic floor may have been caused by constipation, not enough exercise or too much all of a sudden (like aerobics), being overweight, lifting heavy objects, excessive coughing or having a baby.
The good news is that this may go away of its own accord. But you can keep your pelvic floor in good shape by carrying out a few regular exercises. For more information please take a look at our leaflet "
Don't Laugh…until you read this" which explains all about the Pelvic Floor.
Why do I sometimes need to go to the toilet more frequently than others?
Although it might sound unlikely, things like the weather, our emotions and anxieties do affect our bladder function. You may find in the winter when you go from a warm room to a cold corridor, or when you are outside, you will suddenly be aware of the need to wee. It is worth noting that almost everyone needs the toilet if they become emotionally upset. When you feel you need to go, use your pelvic floor muscle to "hold on".
Sometime I wet myself completely when I laugh- it's so embarrassing. Why does it happen?
There are some people, who when they laugh, empty the whole contents of their bladder - this is sometimes called ‘giggle micturition'. The causes are not fully understood, however, it is most likely due to nerve connections between the bladder and the brain. We also know that it can run in families. If you think that you have this problem, please do talk to your doctor.
In the meantime you may wish to pay attention to your Pelvic Floor, as although this might not stop the wetting occurring, it may give you some control. For more information about the Pelvic Floor read the section Why do I wet myself a bit when I laugh, sneeze or do energetic sports?
Also try to drink well and go to the toilet regularly throughout the day. This should help you avoid completely wetting in inappropriate moments.
I don't drink very much but I need to go to the toilet all the time, why?
It could be that over time your body has accepted that you have a small bladder capacity. This is the capacity when your bladder lets you know that it's time for a wee. The surprising thing is that the less you drink, the more often you may need to go. If you drink at least 6-8 glasses each day, your bladder capacity will improve and you will not need to pay so many visits to the loo. Although this might take some time, it really does work, so try it!
Why do I need a wee so often when I have fizzy drinks?
Research has shown that some drinks stimulate the kidneys to increase the production of urine. Drinks that contain caffeine, like coke and other fizzy drinks, coffee and tea, will really send you rushing for the loo if you are one of the unfortunate people whose system does not take too kindly to these stimulants. The best drinks to stick to are water or water-based drinks such as weak squashes and watered-down fruit juices.
My mum says I have a weak bladder because I can't hold on very long. What does this mean?
Many young people have what is called an ‘overactive bladder'. This means the bladder muscle is a bit "twitchy". When it should be relaxing to allow the bladder to fill to a good volume, it suddenly contracts, giving the feeling of urgency. Urgency means you need the loo now and not in a minute, otherwise a leakage of urine may occur. Young people do generally grow out of this condition. If you are concerned, please visit your doctor. He or she will be able to advise on treatment and may recommend a course of medication or further investigation and tests. You may also be referred to a specialist.
I have heard that if I try to "hold on" when I need a wee this might damage my kidneys, is this true?
It will do you no harm to hold on. There will be occasions when you find yourself in a position when you can't go immediately and indeed may have to hold on for some time. But our bodies are well designed, so be reassured, that a delay in emptying our bladder would certainly not lead on to a life threatening kidney problem. Be boss of your bladder! Don't allow your life to be dominated by finding toilets wherever you are.
Is there any medication I can take?
If your doctor thinks that you have an ‘overactive' bladder (a bladder whose muscles contract before the bladder is full), there are medicines that can help the bladder to relax and therefore hold more urine. The most common of these is called oxybutinin. This is a medication that is sometimes prescribed for young people who have daytime ‘urgency', or a sudden, urgent need to go to the toilet. The medication works by helping the bladder muscle to relax so that it can hold more urine. Click here for further information on daytime wetting.
There are some other medications that your doctor may prescribe, If you have any questions, please ask them what the medication is and how it will work on your body.
I am a bit constipated - could this be the reason why I am wet during the day?
Constipation (difficulty in doing a poo, because of hard stools) is a common problem and can affect anyone at some time in their life. If you are constipated, this might put pressure on the bladder; this can interfere with its function. It is important to ensure that the constipation is sorted out and a healthy diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, fibre and regular drinks can help. Try to share the problem with a trusted adult who might be able to advise. A pharmacist may also be helpful. If the problem is ongoing, it is important to discuss it with your doctor.
