Weight loss eases urinary incontinence, reports Harvard Women’s Health Watch
Losing weight is good for so many health problems, from heart disease to diabetes. Shedding just 10 pounds, for example, can lower blood pressure. Add another new benefit to the list, reports the April 2009 issue of Harvard Women’s Health Watch: losing weight eases urinary incontinence in women who are overweight or obese.
Obesity has long been associated with urinary leakage in women, but until now, there’s been little research to confirm that losing weight would help reverse the problem—or to suggest how much weight loss would be needed. A new randomized trial found that moderate weight loss among heavy women who undertook a six-month diet and exercise program cut the frequency of urinary incontinence episodes by nearly half.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
