TMI: Recs for Incontinence Products for Running
Yep, I know, it’s a sensitive TMI kind of subject, but I know I’m not the only one suffering.
I’m a causal runner, but over the years I’ve run a bunch of 5ks, 10ks, 3 half marathons, and one full marathon. I like running. I’m not fast or trying to win anything. Just do it for fun.
A little over a year ago, I birthed a giant baby, and he (wonderful child that I love dearly) destroyed my pelvic floor. I ended up with tears, a prolapse, and significant stress urinary incontinence. Now every time I run, I leak a little.
I’ve talked to my ob about this. I have a seen a urogynecologist. I have a pelvic floor physical therapist that I’ve seen weekly for the last year. I’m doing all the exercises. I have a pessary I wear.
Even with all that, I still leak a little. Just enough to be annoying and require a panty liner or pad. The problem is that menstrual pads aren’t the right shape (go too far back, not far enough forward), and cause me to chafe. The period underpants I’ve tried are the same: the catch guard/gusset is too far back, and everything still ends up damp anyway.
Does anyone have a product they use for running that’s more comfortable? Open to any kind of product: liners, underpants, specific clothing. I’m hoping it’s just a temporary things while I continue to heal. My PFPT and I still think I might be able to make some improvements, but I also may just need surgery to fix things when I’m done having children. For now, I’m just tired of being damp and chafing. Thanks!