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Most of us have a bodily function issue while running. For some, it’s the uncontrollable urge to pee, or incontinence. For some it’s just a little bit of a leak, and for others, it’s a full-blown bathroom trip.
If you have this problem, know that you are not alone. It is common for women to accidentally squirt urine while running, so be content in the fact that you have many in the same boat as you.
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When does incontinence happen and what can we do?
You just had a baby.
Your pelvic and sphincter muscles might have become stretched out and weak. They can no longer hold back under pressure.
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You are getting older.
Sometimes these same muscles can weaken with age.
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You are trying to lose weight.
Extra body weight can put additional pressure on the bladder, causing leaks.
You prolapsed.
Your bladder can actually tilt out of place, so if you’re having this issue, you might want to talk to you ob-gyn.
You have tired muscles.
When you run, the muscles around the bladder can weaken, causing you to leak.
You injured your urethra.
Did someone punch you?
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How can you minimize or stop peeing on the run?
Firm up.
Do Kegel exercises to strengthen the muscles in your pelvis and sphincter. You can do these while sitting at your desk, driving a car, watching a movie even reading 50 Shades of Grey.
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Make sure you are empty.
Pee before you go out. As much as you can.
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Poop more.
This helps avoid constipation, which can lead to more pressure on the bladder.
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Wear a pad.
Yep, it sucks, but it’s absorbent.
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Avoid foods that irritate the bladder.
These include spicy stuff and carbonated beverages.
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Wear dark clothing.
In my opinion, runners should always wear dark clothing below their belly buttons. It’s a simple safeguard against getting made fun of for all kinds of reasons.
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Check with your doctor.
If you do have a prolapsed bladder, you can actually get a device to wear while you run that puts your bladder back into place.
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I don’t mean to make light of this issue. I just wanted those of you who pee your pants (and are not 2 years old) to know that it is very common and nothing to be ashamed of.