Too often neglected, the bladder is nevertheless essential to the proper functioning of our body. How to take care of it and promote good health? Dr Gérald Kierzek answers us.
What is the role of the bladder?
The main role of the bladder is to store urine produced by the kidneys before it is eliminated by the body.
“The bladder is a bag in which urine produced by the kidneys arrives and accumulates. Its wall is extensible: it is a muscle that can expand and shrink, which allows the bladder to contain a greater or lesser quantity of urine. Located in the lower abdomen, it is completely flat when empty; it expands and you can feel it when it’s filled with urine.” specifies the National Cancer Institute.
The bladder also plays a preventive role against infections. It is lined with urothelial cells, also called transitional cells, which form a protective barrier against bacteria and other pathogens.
Better yet, if an infection begins to develop, the bladder is able to quickly trigger defense mechanisms (for example, the frequency of urination may increase).
Despite everything, if the bladder appears to be a “super organ”, it (also) needs to be preserved to function optimally.
How to keep a healthy bladder?
Throughout life, our habits influence the good health of the bladder (bladder continence, frequency of urination, etc.). For example, good hydration is essential to prevent urinary infections. This is why it is important to preserve it on a daily basis by adopting some good health habits.
Here are the ones to know, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
- “Drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. The good
hydration
helps dilute bacteria in the bladder and prevents urinary stones“, warns the medical director of True Medical; - “Do not wait before going to the toilet: as soon as you feel the need, ideally every 3-4 hours, do not hold back, as this promotes bacterial proliferation“, advises the doctor;
- “Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet (women)“, assures Dr. Gérald Kierzek;
- “Urinate quickly after sex to eliminate bacteria“, recommends the practitioner;
- “Avoid
vaginal douches
and scented hygiene products“, warns the medical director of True Medical; - “Reduce your consumption of coffee, tea, alcohol, carbonated drinks and spicy foods which can irritate the bladder and cause overactive bladder“, advises the doctor;
- “Practice exercises regularly
strengthening of the perineum
to tone the pelvic floor muscles. A strong perineum prevents urinary incontinence and improves bladder control“, notes, in conclusion, Dr Gérald Kierzek.