C’mon, Isn’t it Time We Talk About Bladder Leaks?

Bladder leaks shouldn’t be a no-go topic, especially with close friends and family. Use these tips to have a conversation that really matters.

You may not realize just how common bladder leakage is, and that it’s an issue for the middle-aged, not just those in their 70s and 80s. In fact, 1 in 4 Canadian adults experiences incontinence, and the average age is 52.¹

Your trusted inner circle can provide emotional support and be valuable sources of information and solutions that work for them. And since incontinence and pelvic floor weakness tend to be hereditary, you may want to involve select family members too. Here’s how to create a safe space and get started:

1. Do some research beforehand.

Prepare with some online sleuthing. Learn about the causes of bladder leaks, treatment options and management tools that might work for you! There’s plenty of new technology and tools to discover. Not sure where to start? Here are some search ideas:

• What’s the difference between stress and urge incontinence?
• How can I avoid getting bladder leaks?
• What are common triggers for bladder leakage?
• What’s the right way to do pelvic floor exercises, and how often should you do them?
• What are some Kegel apps?

2. Order sample absorbent products.

Get a free Depend® trial kit to see a variety of products for women or products for men that keep you dry, fresh and odour-free. The trial kit comes in discreet packaging and will be shipped directly to your door. And if you’re embarrassed shopping for absorbent products in person, you can subscribe and save on your favourite Depend® items from the Amazon Depend store.

3. Pick the right time and place.

It’s a good idea to have this conversation in an intimate setting, like the comfort of your home, rather than a noisy restaurant where you might feel exposed to prying ears. Invite your close circle over for a casual get-together and make the setting warm and cozy.

4. Start with an embarrassing story about yourself.

Ever laugh so hard you peed your pants? Most likely! We’ve all got a little accident tale to tell. A good chuckle will lighten the mood before delving into the nitty gritty.

5. Discuss how bladder leakage affects your life.

Your conversation may reveal deep emotions, including shame, anger, sadness and loneliness. Bladder leakage can make us feel a loss of control and lack of confidence. Not surprisingly, leaks can affect our sex lives and relationships with our partners. Did you know that leakage during sex affects up to a quarter of women with bladder leakage?²

6. Ask others about their experiences and suggestions for managing leaks.

You may be surprised what you learn. And, of course, share your newfound knowledge with your friends. Show them your sample Depend® products and tell them about how they can stay dry, comfortable and protected with the free trial kit. Depend® is the #1 brand for bladder leakage protection in Canada. With products designed specifically for men’s and women’s unique needs, they have a variety of styles, absorbencies and colours for your best protection — and they’re all comfort and protection guaranteed.^*

7. Offer your support.

Bladder leakage can be an extremely private, sensitive topic. Be a good listener and think about how you can help, such as going with them to see their healthcare provider. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone. After all, isn’t that what friends and family are there for?

Learn more about Depend® products and order your free trial kit at Depend.com.

_{*If you’re not completely satisfied with your Depend® Underwear, we can help. Original receipt/UPC required. Restrictions apply. See Depend website for details. Purchase by 12/31/24. Mail in by 1/31/25.}

_{¹ Kimberly Clark Global Incontinence Study. (2017).
² The North American Menopause Society. (n.d.). Urinary incontinence. http://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/causes-of-sexual-problems/urinary-incontinence}