Retraining Your Bladder

If you’ve been living with overactive bladder (OAB) for a while, you may have gotten into the habit of going to the bathroom quite often. It may take time to recognize that your symptoms have improved. In fact, some people who take DETROL LA may be able to make fewer trips to the bathroom, but they may not even know it.

Regaining control. You can do it!

In addition to taking your medicine, there are a few more things you can do that may help you gain better control over your bladder. Try the tips below to help retrain your body to:

• Wait longer between bathroom trips
• Not rush so much when you have a strong urge

Get used to the idea that you actually can wait

• Try to increase your time between bathroom trips. If you go every hour, then try to wait for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• When you can wait that long without fear of an accident for 1 or 2 weeks, try to increase the time. Try 15 minutes more at first. Then, little by little, wait longer.
• Stick to your timing as much as you can, whether or not you have to go.

When you have a strong urge to urinate

• Stop what you’re doing and sit down when you can. When you’re still, it’s easier to control your urge.
• Squeeze your pelvic floor muscles quickly several times. These are the muscles that help you hold urine in.
• Relax the rest of your body. Take a few deep breaths to help you. Let go of your tension.
• Wait until the urge subsides.
• Walk to the bathroom. Don’t rush.