Latest news with #incontinence
Zawya
4 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Bita Bani, strategic business development leader, joins ProvenMed to accelerate global growth
Dubai, UAE – ProvenMed, a leading MedTech company pioneering wearable solutions for incontinence and home-based urine analysis, proudly announces the joining of Bita Bani as its new Business Development Lead. Bita brings a wealth of experience and value in healthcare growth strategy, market expansion, and commercial transformation to support ProvenMed's mission of delivering dignified and connected care solutions across global markets. With a distinguished track record in scaling healthcare ventures, Bita has held key roles across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Her work has focused on transforming early-stage medical companies into global players, building high-impact partnerships, and creating commercially viable go-to-market strategies in both the private and public sectors. 'Bita's addition to the team comes at a pivotal moment for ProvenMed,', said Amine Staali CEO of ProvenMed. 'As we expand our global footprint and prepare for the next stage of commercialization for both Livv and ActivGo, Bita's insights and network in emerging markets will be instrumental in accelerating our growth trajectory and opening new frontiers.' Bita's portfolio includes strategic advisory and operational leadership for innovative medical technology firms, where she has contributed to business scale-up, international licensing, and partnership development. Her approach blends data-driven strategy with deep human empathy, ensuring that health tech is both accessible and impactful. 'I'm honored to join ProvenMed's journey,' said Bita Bani. 'The company's commitment to addressing real unmet needs through health innovation deeply resonates with me. I look forward to leveraging my experience to foster meaningful partnerships and bring ProvenMed's products to people who need them the most.' As ProvenMed continues to build a robust presence across Europe, MENA, and North America, Bita Bani's leadership is expected to enhance the company's strategic alliances and revenue diversification efforts, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in digital health and patient-centered care. About ProvenMed ProvenMed is a medical technology company developing innovoation solutions in continence care and app-based wellness analysis. Its sub-brands include: ActivGo® – A discreet wearable for urinary incontinence. Livv® – Smart urine analysis testing kits and app for home use. Together, they empower users with autonomy, privacy, and real-time health insights, promoting dignity and health access across all populations.
The Guardian
04-06-2025
- General
- The Guardian
I tried everything to fix my incontinence. Here's what worked
Last October, I got out of bed to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. Sleepy and seated on the toilet, I was shocked into wakefulness by a loud sound. The night before, in my latest attempt to manage incontinence, I'd been working out how to use a Kegel ball, a marble-like vaginal insert that claims to help with pelvic floor strengthening. I'd accidentally fallen asleep with it inside me, and the ball had hit the porcelain bowl. Uh-oh. I dismounted and stuck my ungloved hand deep into the toilet. Luckily, I was able to retrieve it before it entered the drain pipe, preventing the need for a mortifying 3am call to my super. This was both my first and last time using the Kegel ball. Eighteen years prior, I had experienced bladder leakage after giving birth, but it resolved within a year. Once perimenopause hit at age 47, however, the condition returned and managing it had become my part-time job. At the advice of my gynecologist, I'd tried daily self-directed Kegel exercises, tampon-like devices designed to prevent leaks by lifting the urethra and bladder training – or gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits, which I lost interest in pretty quickly. None of these options really worked. So my bladder kept leaking, usually after laughing, coughing or sneezing. Panty liners were now an essential part of my wardrobe. The worst leaks occurred when I went on a run, and required more substantial protection. I wondered how many other middle-aged women on my Central Park loop had diaper-like devices hidden under their Lululemon leggings. Probably a lot. More than 60% of US women surveyed from 2015 to 2018 reported bladder control challenges. Incontinence often begins after childbirth, due to a combination of estrogen loss and physical trauma, says Dr Meghan Markowski, board certified clinical specialist in women's health physical therapy at Brigham and Women's hospital. 'Because we have a certain reserve of estrogen, things get better. Then, when we start to lose estrogen in peri- and post-menopause, these symptoms come back with full-fledged vengeance,' she says. I was an empty nester, recent divorcee and dating again for the first time in decades when incontinence rereared its ugly head. On dates, I'd often scurry away in order to beat the leak. I wondered what these men thought of all those visits to the bathroom – perhaps they suspected I was sneaking drugs or plotting my escape. Although males are also likely to lose some bladder control with age, middle-aged men do not experience the same surge in incontinence that women do. The men I met were mostly my age and their kids had probably been potty trained a decade ago, or more. Did they really want a partner who was going through the reverse? If you can't beat it, talk about it, I decided. And as I started to share, I noticed two things. First, men are usually OK with discussing your vaginal region, no matter the reason. And second, when I revealed my problem to female friends, I learned that I was in good company. 'There's no reason why this should be taboo,' said Dr Larissa Rodríguez, urologist-in-chief and director of the Center for Female Pelvic Health at NewYork-Presbyterian hospital and Weill Cornell Medicine. 'For anything that affects women's quality of life, they should seek care because there are ways to treat it.' There are two main types of incontinence: stress and urge. Both occur because of a decline in estrogen, which weakens the pelvic floor and thins the lining of the urethra. Stress incontinence is caused by physical pressure – such as coughing or running – putting stress on the bladder, leading to urine leakage. This is common when the pelvic muscles, which support the urethra, are weak. This is the type I had: unpleasant and inconvenient, but manageable with pads. Urge incontinence occurs when the bladder contracts more than it should, and can be much harder to live with. 'It's characterized by the sudden compelling desire to pass urine that is either difficult or impossible to defer,' said Markowski. 'You could be out shopping, everything's great, and you go to check out and all of a sudden … Clear the path! I have to get there immediately!' 'For stress incontinence, the gold standard is sling surgery,' said Rodríguez. The sling is 'material put under the urethra, like a hammock, so the urethra has something to close against when there's an increase in abdominal pressure'. Traditionally, mesh is used but it's also possible for doctors to harvest tissue from the patient, like the lining of the abdomen or the fascia of the thigh muscle. Alternatively, stress incontinence can be relieved by injecting bulking agents to increase resistance and thickness in the urethral wall. 'These are similar to the fillers people use for wrinkles,' said Rodríguez. 'They are mostly water-based and close the urethra up a bit.' This is a good option for those who want to avoid surgery. It's a shorter-term fix, but can last several years. Urge incontinence can be improved with two types of medication, both of which reduce bladder contractions. The first type, anticholinergics, accomplish this by blocking the chemical messenger acetylcholine, while the second type, beta-3 agonists, relax the bladder's detrusor muscle, thereby increasing bladder capacity. If medication fails, Rodríguez said nerve modulation – changing nerve activity via stimulation – is the next step. Inserting a pacemaker near the sacral nerves, which manage the bladder, can result in improved brain-to-bladder communication and control. Acupuncture can stimulate nerves at the ankle, blocking abnormal signals from the bladder and preventing spasms. Another option is injecting botulinum toxin, the same one people use for cosmetic purposes. It relaxes the bladder muscles so you don't have spasms. Stress and urge incontinence are both caused by midlife estrogen decline, so ongoing vaginal estrogen supplementation may help, like what's prescribed for vaginal dryness at menopause, according to Dr Rajita Patil, assistant clinical professor of OB-GYN at UCLA and director of UCLA Health's comprehensive menopause care program. 'It takes a few months to see a difference, and the risks are really low,' said Patil. Sign up to Well Actually Practical advice, expert insights and answers to your questions about how to live a good life after newsletter promotion Another highly effective and clinically proven way to prevent and treat incontinence is pelvic physical therapy, which, according to Markowski, is not as simple as doing Kegel exercises. 'Without individually assessing someone's pelvic floor, you have no idea what they're actually doing. Are the muscles so weak you can't activate them? Or are they so tense you can't activate them? The starting function of the pelvic floor muscles will determine the plan of care,' Markowski said. But a training program takes time; Markowski recommends at least three months. If this seems daunting, she suggests at least one pelvic physical therapy session to be properly evaluated and advised. No matter which treatment you choose, behavior modification is also essential. 'Alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages and artificial sweeteners irritate the bladder,' said Patil, who also encourages adequate hydration and maintaining a 'healthy' body weight. 'The more fat there is on the bladder and the urethral sphincter, the greater the pressure exerted on these structures, weakening their ability to maintain closure and increasing the likelihood of urinary leakage.' Another behavioral strategy is bladder retraining – gradually increasing the time intervals between bathroom visits, improving your ability to hold urine – which my gynecologist had recommended. A friend mentioned someone who had undergone a sling surgery, which I'd never heard of. It seemed like a great option, and I could hardly contain my excitement. A week after turning 50, I made an appointment with a urogynecologist. 'I'm tired of peeing in my pants,' were my exact words. 'Please fix me.' A bladder test determined that I had stress incontinence. I scheduled the surgery, an outpatient procedure covered by insurance. Recovery was virtually painless; I didn't even take any Tylenol. I stayed home for a few days, and was told not to exercise or 'stick anything in the vagina' for four weeks. The hardest part was not being able to work out, but the anticipation of pad-less runs made it worth the wait. Now, two months post-surgery, my runs are pee-free. Last week, I visited my surgeon to reperform the bladder test. She made my bladder uncomfortably full via a catheter, then asked me to make a small cough. Then a medium cough. Then a loud one. My underpants remained as dry as a bone. According to my surgeon, I should be 'fixed' for at least the next 10 years. And physical therapy, though not mandatory, could make the results last longer. Still, there is no such thing as a perfect solution, and treatments may work best when combined with others. Markowski, who's dedicated over 20 years to helping patients non-surgically, acknowledges that physical therapy might not be enough to resolve symptoms in all cases: 'We always want to start with the most conservative measures and up the ante as time goes on, with meds or surgery. But surgery doesn't change the muscle function, so in many cases, even the surgeon will want their patient to undergo physical therapy.' Rodríguez, a surgeon, concurs: 'I am a strong believer in physical therapy, and pilates is also quite good in getting people to engage the pelvic floor.' The best thing I ever did about my incontinence was start talking about it. Chances are, if you share, you'll learn that you're not alone. If you're really lucky, you'll even find someone to laugh with you about it. And if you pee a little when you do, you won't be the only one. Amanda Klarsfeld is a freelance writer in New York City.
Associated Press
25-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
RelaCare Adult Diapers Selects Purple Crayon Brand & Digital as Agency of Record for U.S. Launch
Japan's Leading Adult Diaper Brand selects Purple Crayon Brand-- RelaCare Adult Diapers to Make Its U.S. Debut in 2025 NEW YORK CITY, NY, UNITED STATES, May 25, 2025 / / -- RelaCare U.S, a Xins Company healthcare division and Japan's leading adult diaper and incontinence brand, has selected Purple Crayon Brand, LLC, NY as its Brand and Digital Agency of Record for its highly anticipated U.S. launch in June 2025. Purple Crayon Brand, NY will introduce RelaCare's patented, ultra-thin, high-absorbency technology to the growing U.S. adult diaper market, providing consumers an advanced engineered adult diaper brand with a sleeker, more comfortable, and a leak-proof alternative to existing brands. Purple Crayon Brand & Digital, Purple Crayon Brand & Digital, recognized for its data-driven digital strategy, sharp brand positioning, and innovative, disruption-led launch tactics, will spearhead the introduction of RelaCare's breakthrough technology to the U.S. consumer and healthcare markets. RelaCare, recognized across Asia for its advanced moisture-wicking technology and superior absorbency, and 100% organic cotton manufacturing has built a reputation as the most trusted incontinence brand in Japan. With the adult diaper market in the U.S. expected to reach $8.8 billion by 2032, RelaCare is poised to redefine the category with its innovative half-thickness, double-absorbency design, delivering all-day dryness and discreet wearability. As part of the U.S. launch strategy, Purple Crayon Brand & Digital will lead end-to-end brand development, market research, digital strategy, and performance marketing for RelaCare, ensuring a seamless rollout across all channels. This includes an omnichannel go-to-market plan, Amazon and Walmart digital storefronts, and paid media campaigns across Meta, Google, and Amazon Advertising. RelaCare's first-ever U.S. consumer research study and focus groups, which took place in February 2025, provided valuable women's insights to tailor the product messaging and marketing strategies to meet the unique needs of American Women consumers. 'RelaCare has set the standard for incontinence care in Japan, and we are excited to bring this innovation to the U.S. market,' said Jyo Xin, CEO of RelaCare Japan. 'My background as an engineer made me focus on selecting the best materials, including 100% organic cotton, and insist on the highest standards of product quality within our manufacturing process. Our ultra-thin, high-absorbency technology was designed to provide both comfort and confidence to users, and we believe it will be a game-changer for millions of Americans seeking a superior alternative.' He continued, 'Partnering with Purple Crayon Brand & Digital ensures that our brand story and breakthrough technology will reach the right audiences effectively.' 'The U.S. market is primed for innovative Japanese brands to enter the market, said Tony Hatori, Strategic Advisor to Purple Crayon Brand. 'As a former CEO of a U.S.-based Health and Wellness brand, I understand the complexities of launching in this highly competitive space. As a strategic advisor to Japanese brands and having previously collaborated with Purple Crayon Brand, I'm confident in their expertise in brand positioning and digital strategy—and in their ability to help this launch redefine the adult diaper and incontinence category.' 'We are thrilled to introduce this game-changing incontinence brand to the U.S.,' said Jeff McClelland, CEO and Chief Strategy Officer of Purple Crayon Brand & Digital. 'RelaCare and its new Women's Adult Diaper products will disrupt the incontinence marketplace and provide a superior product and confidence to women—and later in the year, men. RelaCare doesn't call these 'adult diapers' – their products are 'Freedom Wear', allowing active mature women the freedom to stay active and pursue their passions.' RelaCare will officially launch in the U.S. in June 2025. Consumers will soon be able to purchase RelaCare products via Amazon, Walmart, and other major online retailers, supported by digital campaigns targeting active older women, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. About RelaCare Japan RelaCare is one of Japan's most rusted adult diaper brands, known for its high-performance incontinence solutions designed to provide maximum absorbency, comfort, and discretion. RelaCare products feature patented leak-proof technology and advanced moisture-wicking capabilities, making them a top choice for millions across Asia. RelaCare is expanding globally to bring its innovative, high-quality adult diapers to new markets. About Purple Crayon Brand & Digital Purple Crayon Brand & Digital, LLC with offcies in NY and Miami, is a full-service brand strategy, digital performance marketing, and creative agency specializing in launching and scaling disruptive Challenger consumer brands. With expertise in e-commerce, digital advertising, and data-driven storytelling, the agency has helped brands across industries achieve sustainable sales growth and brand market leadership. For media inquiries, please contact: Sophia Saaz-Digital Client Lead [email protected] ### END ### Jeffrey McClelland Purple Crayon Consulting, LLC + 19176920303 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Daily Mail
08-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctor explains why you should NEVER pee in the shower
Medics have warned against urinating in the shower saying it could lead to incontinence and in some cases even cause kidney damage. American urogynecologist Dr Teresa Irwin on TikTok encouraged people to give up the habit committed by 60-80 per cent of the public, polls suggest. In the clip Irwin claimed that urinating while showering trains the brain to associate the sound of running water with needing to urinate. Irwin said: 'It's kind of like Pavlov's dog training where every time they heard a little bell ring they will start to salivate. 'So every time you're washing your hands, taking a shower, washing the dishes, if there is running water your bladder is going to "salivating" because it wants to go and pee.' In the long term this can damage the body's internal bladder control leading to frequent rushes to the toilet. But that's not the only potential health hazard linked to urinating in the shower. Some experts warn that women who do so could risk urinary tract infections and even kidney failure. While the male bladder is supported by the prostate when urinating while standing, women don't have this luxury. Women who urinate while standing are putting their pelvic floor muscles under extra strain, which can lead to the bladder failing to empty completely. This leftover urine, medically called urinary retention, can lead to a host of health problems. Dr Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, a Boston-based pelvic floor therapist previously warned that women are 'not designed to pee standing up'. She said: 'Your pelvic floor isn't going to relax properly, which means we're really not going to be emptying our bladder super well.' Another danger associated with urinating in the shower, for both men and women, is the potential risk of skin infection. Open wounds on the lower body can easily become infected with bacteria that may be lurking in urine. However, experts say this risk is relatively minor since, in theory, the water from the shower should wash the urine away from the wound.
Daily Mail
07-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm a doctor - here's the shocking reason you should NEVER pee in the shower - long-term harm could be difficult to reverse
Medics have issued an urgent health warning about urinating in the shower, as it could render you incontinent and in some cases even cause kidney damage. American urogynaecologist Dr Teresa Irwin took to TikTok in a bid to stop people from engaging in the habit committed by 60-80 per cent of the public, polls suggest. In the clip shared with her 90,000 followers, Dr Irwin claimed that urinating while showering trains the brain to associate the sound of running water with needing to urinate. 'It's kind of like Pavlov's dog training where every time they heard a little bell ring they will start to salivate,' she said. 'So every time you're washing your hands, taking a shower, washing the dishes, if there is running water your bladder is going to "salivating" because it wants to go and pee.' In the long term this can mess with the body's internal bladder control leading to frequent rushes to the toilet. But that's not the only potential health hazard linked to urinating in the shower. Some experts warn women who do so could risk urinary tract infections and even kidney failure. While the male bladder is supported by the prostate when urinating while standing, women don't have this luxury. Women who urinate while standing are putting their pelvic floor muscles under extra strain, which can lead to the bladder failing to empty. This leftover urine, medically called urinary retention, can lead to a host of health problems. Dr Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, a Boston-based pelvic floor therapist previously warned that women are 'not designed to pee standing up'. 'Your pelvic floor isn't going to relax properly, which means we're really not going to be emptying our bladder super well,' she said. One final danger from urinating in the shower, for both men and women, is the potential risk of skin infection. Open wounds on the lower body can easily become infected with bacteria that may be lurking in urine. However, experts say the risk is relatively minor since, in theory, the water from the shower should wash the urine away from the wound.
