Bladder weakness continues to be a source of embarrassment for many women, despite being a common issue with 1 in 3 experiencing symptoms after childbirth or menopause due to trauma or weakening of the pelvic floor.

We want to encourage women to open up about their experiences and learn how to improve their situation - which is why we’ve teamed up with ex-Strictly Come Dancing star Kristina Rihanoff, who tells her story of losing pelvic floor strength following the birth of her daughter Mila. 

Our research of 2,000 women, carried out via OnePoll.com, shows 61 per cent have experienced bladder weakness at some point in their life. 

But only 16 per cent went on to seek medical help or advice, while many chose to avoid situations like sporting activities, walking and leaving the house. 

10 per cent would refuse to tell a single soul if they had any medical issue. 

We aim to continue breaking the taboo and encourage women to seek help without embarrassment. 

This is the tightening and contracting of the pelvic floor, muscles essential for bladder control. With 39 per cent never practicing pelvic floor exercises, we think it’s more important than ever to educate and get more bladder weakness sufferers squeezing. Consistently kegel squeezing can help to control, reduce, or in some cases even cure bladder weakness symptoms! 

Reassuringly, a receptive 84 per cent said if they suffered with bladder weakness they would welcome information, knowledge and support. 

We’re here to help. 

“Women shouldn’t feel scared to move or exercise, even if they do suffer with bladder weakness – there is help out there such as online support, yoga classes and even talking to family members can help. 

I’m so passionate about this campaign because I feel like it’s time for us to come together, break the stigma and start talking about this issue.  

“We need to empower women to seek the help they need, to talk about this problem without feeling embarrassed and support all those women who might be struggling.  

“All these issues are completely natural, and we shouldn’t feel inadequate about our bodies.  

 “We need to show you can be positive and happy and make real changes with simple exercises which can be done at home.  

“People can’t understand their pelvic floors, it is like an enigma, and no one talks about it, no-one knows where it is – you have to find it, make fun of it, laugh about it and address it.”  

Read more about how we’re looking to end bladder shame with Ashley James and Dr Zoe Williams here.

If you're ready to rebuild your confidence and tackle the bladder weakness taboo, TENA are here to help. Get the right pad for the job to support your recovery, or learn more about bladder training and how to do pelvic floor exercises.