There is no doubt that I love my kids. I love seeing their smiles, but nothing can beat the joy of having them back in school. However, having kids can put a toll on your body. Today I’m teaming up with Always Discreet to share some info on what happens to our bodies, in particular, mine, after having kids. And while I’ve talked about back to school routines, how about something for moms? I’ll also be sharing my back-to-me mom routine and how you can get active without a gym membership. After all, we have to take care of ourselves too, right?
As an African-American mother who has had four c-sections, I knew that my body was never going to be the same again. What I DID NOT KNOW was that I was going to experience bladder leaks at this young of an age. I thought that it was an “old folks” problem, and if you’re like me, you probably thought the same thing too.
However, here’s something that you may not know.
- 1 in 3 women experiences bladder leaks (yes, the statistics are that high).
- However, it’s even worse for African-American women, because 1 in 2 African-American women experience bladder leaks, and I’m that one!
- 45% of women with sensitive bladders feel older than they are (tell me about it!).
- Frequent bladder leaks can affect many aspects of life from style and sleep to relationships and confidence.
- 48% of women with bladder leaks are more likely to have sleeping problems (no wonder I have such a difficult time sleeping).
I remember the first time it happened to me! I was in the military and doing one of our regular 5-mile runs, and while running, I felt something in my underwear. At the time I thought that I was having my period, boy was I wrong. It was the first time, but it wasn’t the last. From that moment, running, laughing too hard, even playing with the kids would bring it on. I went to my doctor who stated that I had Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). I was told to try Kegel exercises and in the meantime to wear a menstrual pad or a liner.
Now things are so much different! We all know that menstrual pads are for “that time of the month”, so why wear a product that wasn’t designed for bladder leaks? That’s where Always Discreet comes in. Sure we know that Always make amazing pads for your periods, but Always Discreet is made exclusively for leaky bladders, like mine, and quite possibly yours.
Always Discreet for sensitive bladders provides incredible-performing, discreet protection, with a line of products that feature exclusive technology including, RapidDry™ that absorbs leaks in seconds, Dual LeakGuards™ that help stop leaks where they happen most and OdorLock™ that neutralizes urine odors instantly. Always Discreet liners absorb 2x more than menstrual liners for the women that are currently using period liners as a source of protection for bladder leaks, and they’re so thin you won’t even know you’re wearing them, but know they work exceptionally well.
Staying active has always been an issue for me because of bladder leaks. I hated going to the gym because of it, but I would do physical activities at home since its essential to my health and wellbeing. Not only does it boost my mood and productivity, but it makes me feel good inside and out. However, if you’re on a budget, a gym membership might not be in the works for you, and if you’re pressed for time, why waste money on a membership that you won’t utilize to its full advantage.
So what exercise can you do to keep active, without spending a dime at the gym while also not having to worry about bladder leaks, thanks to Always Discreet? Here are 4 easy ones that you can do.
Take the Dogs for a Walk
If you have a dog but designate the dog walking for the kids, it might be a good idea to take over that chore every once in a while. Not only is it a great way to get some exercise, but if your dog is a runner, taking a jog around with neighborhood with your pet is a great way to get your heart rate running. It’s also good exercise for your pet as well, so it’s a win-win for both of you.
Take the Stairs
Do you take the elevator or escalator whenever you can? How about choosing the stairs the next time if it’s an option. Most of the time it’s usually faster anyway, as you sometimes have to wait for quite some time for the elevator to get to you. The stairs are also great for working out your legs and butt muscles. So get that butt in gear!
Run Errands on Foot
If your errands are within walking distance, you may consider opting for walking instead of driving your car. Not only do you save gas, which can be expensive, but you’re also getting some much-needed exercise. Alternatively, if you own a bike, you may consider riding your bike, which is also another great option.
Housework
Believe it or not, housework does have its added benefits besides keeping your home clean. Dusting and vacuuming get you up and moving, and if you add some music, you can honestly get into the groove. Fool yourself into thinking that you’re having fun and you just might. And if you prefer just dancing like no one is watching, that’s all exercise too. Just get up and move!
So if you’re scared to exercise, play with your kids or even laugh because you think you may experience a bladder leak, and if you’re even more worried that you may smell, stop worrying! Always Discreet, has you covered, literally!
Always Discreet is available in all major supermarkets, pharmacies and mass retail locations in the specialty aisle. Go to alwaysdiscreet.com to learn more.
