Bones and bladders

One of the less happy outcomes of childbearing is that the pelvic floor ain’t what it used to be! And the problem amongst women is more widespread than is realised. If you’re one of those embarrassed by ‘leaking’ when laughing, exercising or sneezing, then you’re experiencing what is politely called stress incontinence.

Figures from the Continence Foundation of Australia show that 50% of women aged 26 -39 suffer some form of incontinence at least once, with 1 in 3 mothers suffering from bladder weakness. But at least 60-70% of those can be cured or better managed and while surgery is one option, it should be used as a last resort.

There are a range of pad products on the market to temporarily solve the problem, but it’s never too late to start working on those recommended pelvic floor exercises. A physiotherapist who specialises this area will tailor an exercise program that suits each individual situation.

Resource: Continence Foundation of Australia       

Women’s Waterworks: Curing Incontinence by Pauline Chiarelli
 

It can’t be said enough – osteoporosis is not just a disease that affects the elderly, it’s also a major health issue for mums. Reducing the risk of this silent disease is as simple as just three serves of calcium-rich food per day, in combination with regular weight-bearing exercise. And while many women avoid dairy products on the grounds of the saturated-fat content, there are many low fat, or no-fat alternatives, or calcium supplements.

However, a recent American analysis of metabolic balance studies of 500 women aged 35-65 years showed that for each 500mg increase in calcium intake, phosphorus absorption was reduced by 166mg. Healthy bones need both calcium and phosphorus. If dietary calcium supplements are taken, they must be teamed with higher intakes of dietary phosphorus in order to be effective.

Visit National Healthy Bones Week for more information – the site also contains tasty recipes such as tangy chickpea dip or fresh tomato and thyme soup. Each recipe contains nutrition analysis per serve, including the percentage of recommended daily calcium intake.

The information provided in this article is intended as a guide only. Always consult your doctor if you or your child is suffering any medical complaint. Any websites referred to by Australian Family contain information moderated by government and medical institutions or organisations.

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, March 2003.