Let’s face it — some topics are a little awkward and bladder health is often at the top of that list. But here’s the truth: incontinence is more common than you might think and there is absolutely no reason to feel embarrassed. It’s a normal condition that can happen for a variety of reasons — medication side effects, weak pelvic muscles, urinary tract infections and more. The good news is you can take control.

Talk with your doctor about steps or treatment options that can help make daily life easier. You can also explore small lifestyle tweaks that may help. For example, stay hydrated. Yes, it might sound counterintuitive, but drinking enough water is key. Just be mindful of bladder irritants like excess coffee, alcohol, citrus and carbonated drinks — they can make things worse. Strengthening your pelvic muscles with targeted pelvic floor exercises can also help support your bladder. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce stress on your bladder, too. Talk with your doctor about additional steps or treatment options that can help make daily life easier.

Remember, incontinence isn’t just a part of aging — it can be a manageable condition. The first step is having the conversation. Because when you talk about it, you’re taking the right direction toward feeling better.