November is Bladder Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their urologic health. Throughout the month, healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and providers work together to raise awareness about common bladder issues, promote early detection and treatment, and reduce the stigma that often surrounds these conditions.

Your bladder plays a key role in your overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply want to keep your urinary system healthy, here are five tips for maintaining a healthy bladder.

1. Hydrate Wisely

Drinking enough water helps flush bacteria and toxins from your urinary tract. Aim for 6–8 cups of water per day, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Tip: Limit beverages that can irritate the bladder, like caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated or artificially sweetened drinks.

2. Don’t Hold It In

Ignoring the urge to urinate for long periods can strain your bladder muscles and increase your risk for infections. Try to empty your bladder every 3–4 hours during the day.

Tip: Take bathroom breaks before long meetings, car rides, or events to avoid unnecessary strain.

3. Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor

Your pelvic floor muscles help control bladder function. Strengthening them through Kegel exercises can improve bladder control and prevent leaks.

Tip: Both men and women can benefit. Try doing a few sets of Kegels daily while sitting or standing.

4. Eat a Bladder-Friendly Diet

What you eat impacts your urinary health. Trying a bladder-friendly diet along with exercise can help both your bladder and overall health. Incorporate fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent constipation, which can put pressure on the bladder.

Tip: Avoid spicy foods, citrus, and artificial sweeteners if you notice they trigger irritation or urgency.

5. Listen to Your Body

If you experience pain, burning, blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, a weak stream, or frequent urges to urinate, don’t ignore it. Early detection of conditions like urinary tract infections, incontinence, or bladder cancer can make a major difference in treatment and outcomes.

Tip: Schedule regular checkups and talk openly with your provider about any bladder changes.

Take Charge of Your Bladder Health

Bladder Health Awareness Month is the perfect reminder that taking care of your bladder is an important part of overall health. By staying proactive, making small lifestyle changes, and seeking care when needed, you can help prevent issues and maintain comfort and confidence every day.

If you’re experiencing bladder-related symptoms or have questions about your urinary health, schedule an appointment with a Urology Austin provider today. Our team offers compassionate, expert care to help you take charge of your health at every stage of life. 

Explore More Expert Insights on Urologic Health

If you missed our recent webinar on Bladder Health for Women, you can now watch the full session online. You’ll also find a growing library of patient webinars covering important topics like bladder health for men and women, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, enlarged prostate, and much more.

Visit our Patient Webinar page or our YouTube channel to learn from Urology Austin’s trusted providers and take a more active role in your health.