One in three women in the UK experience bladder leaks – including reality TV star Gemma Collins, who has spoken out about her own struggles with the issue.
Over half of the 1,500 women polled feel their daily life has changed due to bladder leakage, with many saying they are held back from doing things they love due to incontinence.
And 42-year-old Gemma is no stranger to this feeling – as she has opened up about shying away from working out or going out with friends over fear of leaks.
In fact, one in seven women (14%) who experience bladder leaks work out less as a result, with many experiencing a loss of confidence – as one in five are unsure how to manage the problem.
Almost a quarter (23%) drink less water, while 22% avoid long car journeys.
However, 54% believe the condition is more common than people think, but isn’t widely spoken about.
Gemma Collins, who has teamed up with Always Discreet, which commissioned the research, said: “I was so surprised to find out how many women are experiencing bladder leaks, me included.
“In the past, I’ve held back on doing things I enjoy – like trampolining, working out, or dancing the night away with friends – because I was worried about bladder leaks.
“Since learning that pelvic floor exercises can help to manage leaks, plus using Always Discreet pads for those moments when I need more protection, I no longer have to hold back.
“I’m here to help women across the UK know that they don’t have to never let bladder leaks ruin the fun!”
The research also found more than a third (37%) of those who experience leaks have let it hold them back from taking part in activities while on holiday – while 18% report anxiety around sex.
Emma Gerrard, from Always Discreet UK, added: “We’re on a mission to unleash women’s confidence, so they can live life to the fullest – without compromise.
“We want to raise awareness that bladder leaks can be experienced by women of all ages, not just in older generations and by those who have experienced childbirth.
“Gemma shares our passion for wanting to let the one in three women who experience bladder leaks know that they are not alone, and that there is help available to them.
“By speaking out about her personal experiences, Gemma is helping to spread the word about how to manage bladder leaks with products that offer strong protection, and the importance of pelvic floor exercises.
“As a first step, if you have any concerns regarding bladder weakness, or pelvic floor discomfort, we always recommend speaking to your GP.”
