Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects millions of women. OAB can be caused by many things, including pregnancy, lifestyle choices, and menopause. Though there is no cure for OAB, there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. One such treatment is pilates. Pilates is a exercises system that focuses on strengthening the core muscles. A strong core can lead to better balance and stability, which can in turn help lessen the symptoms of OAB. In addition, pilates can help improve posture and flexibility

There are two main types of overactive bladder: urge incontinence and stress incontinence. Urge incontinence is when you have a sudden urge to urinate and cannot hold it in. Stress incontinence is when you leak urine when coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Both types of overactive bladder can be helped with pilates

Pelvic floor muscle contractions are a key part of both preventing and lessening the symptoms of overactive bladder. The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder and control urinary function. Pilates exercises can help strengthen these muscles, which may help relieve stress incontinence and urge incontinence symptoms

In addition to specific exercises for the pelvic floor muscles, pilates exercises that focus on the deep abdominal muscles can also help alleviate OAB symptoms. The transverse abdominis helps stabilize the pelvis and control urinary function. Strengthening this muscle through pilates may help lessen OAB symptoms for some women

Pilates Exercises for Overactive Bladder
Here are three pilates exercises that may help alleviate OAB symptoms

1. Double Leg Lifts
2. Pelvic Tilts
3. Kegel Exercises

For more information on these exercises and how to do them properly, please consult a certified pilates instructor or health professional before starting any new exercise regimen

OAB is a common condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Though there is no cure, there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. Pilates is one such treatment; by strengthening the core muscles, pilates can help alleviate OAB symptoms for some women. If you think you may have OAB or if your OAB symptoms are affecting your quality of life, please consult your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment options."