Suffering from urinary incontinence (UI) can be very frustrating and embarrassing. This condition is common among men and women especially those aged 60 years old and above. This condition unfortunately cannot be cured but can be controlled. Treatments and products like incontinence underwear are recommended to people with this condition in order to help them normalize their life.

Urinary incontinence is also known as the loss of bladder control or urinary leakage. It is characterized by involuntary leakage of urine or uncontrollable wetting. UI is when urine leaks out before you can get to a bathroom which in most cases requires the person to wear incontinence underwear in order to avoid embarrassing situations. This condition can happen to anyone but is more apparent among older men and women. Incontinence is a common problem and is a fact of life for about three million people in the UK alone and around 25 millions Americans according to the National Association for Continence (NAFC). The condition affects far more women than men, and it is thought to occur in one in five women who are over 40 years of age.

Incontinence underwear is vital to people afflicted with UI. Urinary incontinence is usually caused by problems with muscles and nerves that help to hold or pass urine. It happens if the bladder muscles suddenly contract or the sphincter muscles are not strong enough to hold back urine. Nerve problems can occur at any age and any disease, condition, or injury that damages nerves can lead to urination problems. Some of the most common diseases that affect bladder control include diabetes, stroke, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. For women, UI can also be caused by pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. All these diseases affect the brain and the nervous system which in turn affects the way the urinary system functions.

Urinary incontinence is never normal and thus requires attention. Many treatments are designed to help eliminate or reduce the severity of your incontinence. Treatments depend on the type of problem you have and what best fits your lifestyle and may include simple exercises, medicines, special devices or procedures prescribed by your doctor, or surgery. Some common treatments used to help UI include behavioral treatments, nerve stimulation and catheterization. The use of incontinence underwear is also highly recommended in order to avoid embarrassment especially when one is in the middle of an important meeting or event.

The use of incontinence underwear is common among men and women suffering UI. Wearing such can be uncomfortable and challenging but is very helpful at the same time. Their main feature is that they are not held in place by tape or Velcro, which makes it easier to pull down and pull up for the person who is wearing them. Incontinence underwear also comes in different styles. Newer models are designed to be more comfortable and fashionable. They can also be easier to store and look and feel similar to normal underwear allowing the wearer to be more discreet. Moreover, they are far more environmentally friendly than adult diapers which others usually wear since such underwear can be worn as many times as possible.

Urinary incontinence may be corrected with lifestyle changes and medical treatment. There are also products which can help in treating and going through such condition like the use of incontinence underwear. Remember that there is always an incontinence product or program that will suit each person's needs.

Maria Lucas is retired teacher form Alabama who is suffering from urinary incontinence. Because of her condition, Maria relies to an incontinence underwear (Gummihosen) in living normally.