Bladder Health, UTIs & Ongoing Discomfort

Bladder health isn’t something most of us openly discuss, yet issues like urinary frequency, sudden urges, and ongoing discomfort can significantly impact daily life. These concerns affect both men and women, especially those over 45.

Still struggling?

Why pelvic floor exercises may not be the fix?

For women, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and often linked to peri- and post-menopausal hormonal shifts. Unfortunately, repeated doctor visits and endless rounds of antibiotics can deplete the microbiome—a key player in overall health. But leaving a UTI untreated isn’t an option either, as it can escalate into kidney infections and more severe complications.

When Pelvic Floor Exercises Aren’t Enough

If you’ve been told to do Kegels or seen a pelvic physiotherapist without relief, it’s time to consider deeper underlying causes. Many women are dismissed when seeking help for bladder issues, but this is not just “in your head.”

Some overlooked factors that may be contributing to your symptoms include:

🔹 Microbiome Imbalances – While most associate the microbiome with gut health, your urinary, vaginal, and gastrointestinal microbiomes all interact and influence bladder function. Testing these can reveal pH imbalances, hidden infections, or bacterial disruptions.

🔹 Histamine Sensitivity & Mast Cell Activation – Histamine can trigger inflammation and bladder irritation, increasing urgency, frequency, and even contributing to recurrent UTIs. Identifying histamine sensitivity through genetic and nutritional testing can help uncover triggers and guide personalised dietary changes.

🔹 Immune System Dysfunction – A weakened immune response can make the bladder more susceptible to infections and chronic irritation.

Beyond Temporary Fixes: Lasting Relief Through Nutritional Therapy

Working with a Nutritional Therapist can be the missing piece in managing bladder health. The pain, discomfort, fatigue, and nighttime disruptions caused by UTIs and bladder dysfunction can lead to anxiety, impacting daily life and even causing some to fear leaving home.

One innovative approach I use in my practice is micro-immunotherapy. Instead of relying solely on antibiotics—which can weaken the immune system and contribute to antibiotic resistance—this method helps restore the body’s natural defences, supporting long-term bladder health.

By addressing the root causes of bladder issues, we can move beyond temporary solutions and work toward real, lasting relief.

⚖️ Hormonal Changes – Oestrogen helps maintain bladder elasticity and urethral support. As levels decline in peri- and post-menopause, bladder control can weaken.
🔥 Histamine Sensitivity & Inflammation – Some individuals experience bladder irritation due to histamine-related inflammation, triggering urgency and frequency.
🛡️ Immune System Dysfunction – A weakened immune response can make the bladder more susceptible to infections and irritation.

Beyond Kegels: Managing Incontinence Naturally

✅ Pelvic Floor Therapy – Exercises, biofeedback, and posture adjustments to enhance bladder control.
✅ Diet & Lifestyle Modifications – Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners, while staying hydrated.
✅ Microbiome Testing & Support – Analysing the urinary, vaginal, and gut microbiomes can uncover imbalances that contribute to bladder issues.

Recurrent UTIs: Why Do They Keep Coming Back?

UTIs occur when bacteria, often E. coli, enter the urinary tract. While men can develop UTIs, women experience them more frequently due to anatomical differences.

🔹 Hormonal Shifts – Oestrogen helps maintain a balanced urinary microbiome. Post-menopausal changes can increase UTI risk.
🔹 Frequent Antibiotic Use – While antibiotics treat UTIs, they also disrupt the urinary and gut microbiomes, leading to recurrent infections.
🔹 Urinary Retention – Incomplete bladder emptying (sometimes due to pelvic floor dysfunction) creates an environment where bacteria thrive.
🔹 pH Imbalance & Microbiome Disruptions – A disrupted vaginal or urinary microbiome can allow harmful bacteria to flourish.

Taking Control of Your Bladder Health

If pelvic floor exercises haven’t resolved your symptoms, it may be time to look deeper. Working with a Nutritional Therapist can uncover the hormonal, microbiome, and inflammatory imbalances at the root of your bladder issues—offering personalised solutions to improve bladder health naturally.

📩 Struggling with bladder issues? Let’s find the missing piece of the puzzle together!