When up to the bathroom for the first time after a vaginal delivery, the client states, ÔÇ£A friend told me that IÔÇÖm going to have trouble with urinary incontinence now that I have had a baby.ÔÇØ Which is the best response by the nurse?

Women of any life stage can experience urinary incontinence. Kegel exercises strengthen muscles surrounding the vagina and urinary meatus, preventing urinary incontinence for many women. To perform Kegel exercise, contract the muscles around the vagina and hold for 10 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. This should be repeated 30 or more times each day. The nurse should educate the client about ways in which to prevent urinary incontinence, not just offer information about how to manage the condition if it should occur. Surgical repair only occurs in the most extreme circumstances, after less invasive interventions have been unsuccessful.