The art of hap-pee-ness

Whether we’ve had prolapse or not, we all need to take care of our bladders, says gynaecologist Dr Janine Manwaring. That’s because those occasional tiny leaks

you may notice after childbirth tend to get worse. Plus, the oestrogen drop that comes with menopause makes all women more susceptible to prolapse.

DO: hold on

Going before you really need to go can eventually weaken your bladder. That’s because pre-emptive peeing (such as

before leaving the house) conditions it to hold onto less

and less urine.

DON’T: sit tight

Your bladder relaxes better when you sit on the toilet rather than hovering over it. In public loos, put down paper or use a disposable seat cover.

DO: stop leaks

A few drops, even during a run, is not okay because it is likely to get worse. Consult a specialist physiotherapist to learn the activities to avoid and the exercises to support

your pelvic floor.