Despite many years (even decades) spent together, it can still be difficult for many couples to keep the love relationship alive.

Life, especially as we get older, is full of changes. Some planned, yet others not. Many of us are dealing with elderly parents, children who leave the house (or return), new illnesses and other events. Who has time for sex?

And when you add a common physical condition to the mix, such as urinary incontinence, everything takes on a not pleasant outline.

But don't worry, you are not alone in suffering from such problems. 1 in 3 women suffer from urinary incontinence, which can be the result of a near pregnancy, weight gain or simply a cause of the natural progression of aging.

But is it so difficult to keep sexual intercourse alive when you have incontinence?

Often the main obstacle in intimacy is not incontinence in itself, but the sense of shyness that you feel towards your partner and the discomfort of having to admit a condition that is perceived as a "weakness".

First of all, you must be aware that incontinence is not something to be ashamed of, which is much more widespread than you think, but which, above all, can be managed with the right precautions.

Talking about it with your partner is essential, because excluding it, you risk triggering dynamics that have nothing to do with incontinence and that undermine dialogue and couple relationships, even off the sheets. Sharing is, however, important: just change some habits to continue having a fulfilling and serene sex life.

Here are some practical tips:

• Avoid drinking an hour before intercourse and in general do not go overboard with coffee, tea or alcohol;

• go to the bathroom before intercourse;

• protect the bed with a towel or sleeper;

• take breaks when you feel the urge to urinate;

• avoid positions where the partner can "press" on the bladder;

• train the muscles of the pelvic floor with Kegel exercises

For men, there is also the possibility to use some silicone devices that can be applied before intercourse to limit urinary losses. But we always advise you to consult your doctor to get the most suitable suggestions for your specific situation.