Loss of bladder control can be an embarrassing problem.  If your leaky bladder is causing you to miss out on trips and get-togethers, you need to learn how to prevent accidents, and how to deal with them if they happen.

Prevent Frequent Urination By Managing Your Fluid Intake

Some people have the idea that if they drink less, they'll have fewer accidents.  This sounds good, but it's not a healthy thing to do.  Cutting back on fluids can cause constipation, which aggravates the situation.  Chronic dehydration can also lead to kidney and liver problems, along with infections.

You should be drinking half your body weight in ounces of water every day.  If you weigh 130 pounds, you should be drinking 65 ounces of water daily.  However, when you drink is nearly as important as how much.  You'll want to cut back on the fluids a couple of hours before you leave for an engagement, or before you go to bed at night.

Avoid any drinks that contain caffeine.  Soda, coffee, tea, and even hot chocolate act as diuretics, which stimulate urine output from the kidneys.  Certain foods may trigger spasms, too.  You may want to see if you have any food sensitivities which may cause problems.  Some culprits include wheat, highly seasoned dishes, citrus fruits, sugar, and even artificial sweeteners.

Protect Your Clothing From Urine Leakage

A panty liner will catch small amounts of leakage.  However, if you have a more severe problem, you may want to look for more absorbent products.

Wear loose-fitting, dark clothing.  This will help to hide the occasional accident, plus it's easier to remove if you're in a hurry in the bathroom.

Bring an extra change of clothing along on outings.  You can discreetly slip into the bathroom to change clothes, if necessary.

Controlling Odor

If you have an accident, you may be worried about odors.  Staying well-hydrated will keep your urine from becoming too concentrated and strong-smelling.  Drinking apple, pear, or cherry juice will help to reduce odor, as well.

Change your clothes frequently, and wash them often, using vinegar or baking soda in the laundry, to kill lingering smells.

Kegels Can Help

Strenghtening the pelvic floor muscles can help prevent accidents.  Kegel exercises are easy to do.  Some people have trouble locating the right muscles, so ask your doctor for help if you have problems doing these exercises.

Try Pumpkin Seed Extract

This is an old remedy for urinary problems.  Water-soluble pumpkin seed extract is recommended, as it's easily absorbed by the bloodstream.  Many people who have tried it report good results, sometimes within a month.  This herbal remedy is safe, with little or no risk of side effects.

Loss of bladder control is bad enough, but if it's cutting into your social life, it's time to take action.  Don't let frequent urination dictate what you can or can't do.