Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is primarily a vata disorder, caused by weakness of the muscles of the bladder, especially the bladder sphincter. If that becomes weak and uncontrolled, a person may lose voluntary control of urination to a greater or lesser extent.

Another cause of incontinence, especially in the West, seems to be the frequent use of rest rooms. When some people see a rest room, they just use it, whether the need is urgent or not. They apparently think (perhaps subconsciously), “Maybe I won’t have another chance for a while.” But the bladder muscles become weak and lose the capacity to retain a large amount of urine and pass it out only when really necessary.

Urinary incontinence is more common among women than men,

because their urethra is quite short. When women cough, sneeze, or strain, or even when laughing, their bladder may leak a little urine.

This disorder can be controlled by certain herbs, a periodic oil enema, and certain yoga exercises. Let’s begin with the latter.

YOGA

ASHWINI MUDRA. This exercise involves using the perineal muscles to suck the anus inward, tightening the gluteal muscles. It will also strengthen the bladder sphincter. Do 10 to 12 repetitions, 2 or 3 times a day (while sitting down).

OTHER POSTURES. Sitting in the Vajrasana pose (see illustration in appendix 4) will help, as will the Forward Bend, Shoulder Stand, and Plow pose.

HERBS

Prepare the following mixture:

ashwagandha 5 parts
bala 3 parts
vidari 2 parts

Take ½ teaspoon with warm water twice a day, after meals.

• Every day eat a handful of white sesame seeds with some jaggery or natural brown sugar. This will strengthen the bladder and help to correct the incontinence.

OTHER REMEDIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

SESAME OIL ENEMA. Once a week, do a basti (enema) using warm sesame oil (see appendix 2). Insert about 1 cup of oil into the rectum, and try to retain it for at least 5 to 10 minutes. If the oil runs out, don’t worry. Sesame oil enema is one of the most effective ways to balance vata.

AVOID ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE. Caffeine is a diuretic and intensifies the need to urinate. Therefore, incontinence and urgency of urination are quite common among coffee drinkers or users of other caffeinated beverages, such as tea or cola. Alcoholic beverages also promote incontinence. So it is better to avoid caffeine and alcohol if you have any problem with urinary control.

VATA-PACIFYING DIET. Since urinary incontinence is largely due to excess vata, following a vata-balancing diet will help. (See the dietary guidelines in chapter 8.)