Lifestyle and home remedies - Urinary Incontinence

Problems with urine leakage may require you to take extra care to prevent skin irritation. You may need to use a washcloth to clean and dry yourself. Products such as powders, moisturizers and deodorizing tablets can help you feel clean and eliminate urine odor. You might also consider using a barrier cream, such as petroleum jelly or cocoa butter, to protect your skin from urine. But don't overdo it. Your body has natural defenses against bladder infections. Washing too frequently or douching can defeat those defenses. It's better to aim for keeping your skin clean and dry.

If you have urge incontinence or nighttime incontinence, move any rugs or furniture you might trip over or collide with on the way to the toilet. Use a night light to illuminate your path and reduce your risk of falling.

If you have functional incontinence, a home or bathroom renovation project may help. Possible changes may include adding a bathroom in a more convenient location, widening an existing bathroom doorway, installing an elevated toilet seat or simply adding a few well-placed lights. You may also benefit from a bedpan.