Urinary incontinence in women can be relieved in many cases by following simple steps, such as reducing caffeine consumption, an expert has claimed.
According to Dr Brian Nelson, pelvic strengthening can help limit leakage for some women who suffer urinary loss when they cough, laugh, jump or sneeze. Writing for the Longmont Times-Call, he highlighted childbirth, chronic coughing, excessive weight, smoking and chronic constipation as the main risk factors for urinary incontinence.

Dr Nelson suggested: "Reducing caffeine intake to one or fewer cups a day, limiting fluid intake to drinking only when thirsty and altering timing of any diuretic medication can greatly improve symptoms. "When control still is inadequate, a doctor can prescribe a daily medication that helps to relax the bladder and greatly reduce the frequency of urgency." For those who suffer urinary loss even when following these steps, incontinence pads could provide a discreet and effective solution.

More than six million people in the UK suffer from incontinence and bladder problems.