Bladder leaks are a common yet often stigmatized issue that many women face, especially as they age. Whether it’s a hearty laugh, a sneeze or simply existing, urinary incontinence can catch anyone off guard. According to Cleveland Clinic, urinary incontinence is a loss of bladder control that affects many older adults and women who have given birth or gone through menopause. Other contributing factors include urinary tract infections and pelvic floor disorders.
Understanding bladder leaks
For many women, bladder leaks become a reality after childbirth or as they enter their 40s. Emmy Award-winning actress and NY Times bestselling author Tabitha Brown has bravely shared her own experiences with bladder leaks, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding this common issue. In an exclusive interview with HelloBeautiful, she recounted her first encounter with bladder leakage, which occurred after a sneeze. “I was like, wait, what just happened?” she recalled.
Brown noted that her bladder issues began in her 30s after having her son, and she humorously remarked, “But the 40s, your body is like, you on your own girl.” This candidness resonates with many women who have experienced similar struggles, especially as they navigate the changes that come with aging.
Tabitha Brown’s advocacy for open conversations
In her interview, Brown emphasized the importance of starting conversations about bladder leaks. She believes that by discussing these issues openly, women can feel less isolated and more empowered. “The solution, first and foremost, is to start the conversation so that more women are talking about it,” she said. Brown also highlighted the options available for managing bladder leaks, such as products from Always Discreet. She shared her preference for pads over full briefs, noting that they are comfortable and effective in preventing leaks.
“Now, if I have a cold and get a coughing attack, I’m not worried about it if I have this on,” Brown explained. She expressed how these products have allowed her to engage in activities she once avoided due to the fear of leakage, such as exercising and socializing.
Reclaiming joy amid bladder leaks
Brown poignantly described how bladder leaks can impact daily life, often dictating how one shows up in the world. The fear of an accident can overshadow moments of joy, making women overly cautious about laughter and social interactions. “We shouldn’t let our laughter not be filled with joy,” she stated. By using products that provide security, women can focus on enjoying life without the constant worry of potential leaks.
Tabitha Brown’s journey through perimenopause
At 45, Brown has also been open about her experience with perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause. This period can begin in a woman’s 30s but is most commonly experienced between the ages of 40 and 44. Brown humorously described perimenopause as arriving without notice, bringing with it symptoms such as frequent urination, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances.
“She [perimenopause] comes without notice, right? She doesn’t let you know that she has arrived,” Brown joked. She explained how these changes can feel overwhelming, yet she encourages women to embrace these conversations. “We don’t have to be embarrassed. We don’t have to feel uncomfortable. We are in this thing together,” she affirmed.
Embracing the journey together
Brown’s candid discussions about bladder leaks and perimenopause are crucial in breaking down the stigma surrounding these common experiences. By sharing her story, she empowers other women to speak up and seek solutions, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. As women navigate the complexities of aging, it’s essential to foster open conversations and support one another in reclaiming joy and confidence in their lives.
