Mardi Gras is around the block, and we have been anticipating carnival season!
During parade season we are constantly out and about, and consuming more food and alcohol than we can anticipate. This is such a fun time, but with this change in lifestyle and diet, we may have an increase in urinary urgency and frequency. Read on for your go to mardi gras peeing tips.
Mardi Gras Peeing Tips
#1 Be aware of bladder irritants
Bladder irritants include alcohol, spicy food, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and sugar – all the things we can’t get enough of! Don’t worry about avoiding these irritants completely, just be aware of their impact on your bladder health. Make sure there is a bathroom nearby your parade set up!
#2 Remember to hydrate with water
It may sound counterintuitive to increase fluid intake, water can hydrate your urine fluid. This causes less irritation to the bladder lining.
#3 Monitor your voiding intervals
If it has been 3-4 hours since you last went to the restroom your bladder may be close to being full. Instead of waiting until you feel like you’ll burst, start heading to a toilet so you’ll make it there without leaking.
#4 Use the “Freeze, Breathe, Squeeze” technique for urge control
If you feel a tinkle coming, follow the steps below.
- Stop walking
- Take a few deep breaths to calm the nervous system and bladder
- Squeeze your pelvic floor a couple of times
- Continue to breathe
- Start walking again and if the strong urge returns – then repeat! Walk calmly to the toilet and try to distract yourself with the sights!
#5 Sit on the toilet seat and don’t push to pee
Put a dab of antiseptic gel on some toilet paper to wipe down the seat before you pee!
Though porta potties can be a less than ideal place to go, try to avoid hovering. When sitting fully, our pelvic floor muscles can relax better to empty the bladder more fully. Try to just sit and breathe – don’t push to empty your bladder.
#6 Exhale with exertion
If you are prone to leak with coughing, sneezing, or lifting – try this tip. When carrying your heavy bead bags, tired kids, or ladder – remember to breathe and brace. Exhale and brace while you lift and continue to breathe while you carry.
Hopefully these Mardi Gras peeing tips can give you some relief on the parade route! Remember to have fun and stay safe!
If you’re worried about your bladder health beyond just parade season, check out our quiz to see if the V-Hive Membership could be right for you. With just a few brief questions, you’ll know the best place to start on your pelvic floor journey. Whether you are looking for strengthening, relaxation, prevention, or aren’t quite sure where to begin, we have just the series for you!
