Two thirds of women over 40 are currently suffering from bladder leakage – with many feeling embarrassed and depressed as a result, a study has found.
Nine in 10 sufferers over the age of 40 said the condition, which can be caused by childbirth and often develops as women get older, has had a 'major impact' on their quality of life.
And a tenth said it has even led to depression. Despite this, only three in 10 have been to see a healthcare professional about the condition.
Three in five have even kept it secret from their partners – or haven't been 'completely open' with them about the extent of their suffering.
The research of 2,000 women aged 40 and over, commissioned by pelvic floor muscle trainer Pelviva , found the thoughts of 17% of sufferers are 'dominated' by bladder leaks.
Julia Herbert, consultant physiotherapist and clinical director for Pelviva, said: "Bladder leakage is a health issue which affects millions of women of all ages across the UK.
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"Pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes associated with the menopause and putting on weight are among the many causes of bladder leakage due to weakening pelvic floor muscles.
"These issues are more commonly experienced by older women, but it can just as easily affect someone in their 30s or even younger.
"Despite this high prevalence, bladder leakage is still seen as something of a taboo for women to discuss – they may find it hard to talk with their friends, family or even their partner, which is a perception we'd like to see change."
The research also found one in 10 don't feel they're able to enjoy life fully as a result of the condition.
70% have suffered bladder leakage when they have laughed, coughed or sneezed, while one in three have experienced symptoms when running, jumping or engaging in other physical activities.
To try and combat bladder leakage, 23% of sufferers are careful with how much they drink and 30% always plan toilet stops while travelling.
One third make sure to wear absorbent pads and one in twenty even make effort to wear clothes which hides the fact they may have had 'an accident'.
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It also emerged a quarter said bladder leakage issues make them feel older than they really are.
Further to this, eight in 10 suspect more women suffer from bladder leakage than would actually admit it in public.
Of those who have sought out medical help for their condition, 21% went to see their GP and 5% have seen a gynecologist.
But 96% of women have heard of pelvic floor exercises, just 10% actually do them regularly.
A fifth of those polled, via OnePoll, said they're not sure if they know how to do pelvic floor exercises correctly and 23% have attempted them but didn't notice any improvement.
Dr Donna McVey, medical director at Pelviva, said: "Being told to go away and do your pelvic floor muscle exercises is not helpful as medical evidence shows as many as 50% of women can't do their own pelvic floor muscle exercises correctly.
"This is through no fault of their own – they simply do not have the connection to the pelvic floor. Julia Herbert added:
"Pelvic floor exercises are a simple but often overlooked treatment for bladder leakage.
"The Pelviva treatment has been designed to train your pelvic floor muscles correctly, and is completely automated and simple to use. "
Andrew Tasker, CEO of Femeda Ltd which developed Pelviva, added: "As the research shows, bladder leakage affects millions of women, leaving them to suffer in silence with emotional and psychological issues.
"However, there are ways to reduce the symptoms, helping women to life their lives to the full.
"It's so important women aren't burdened with this condition and Pelviva is one way they can stop feeling this way."
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