Originally posted by the Live Confidently team on LiveConfidently.com

Bladder leakage is often a slow development that we sometimes don’t notice until it becomes a serious hindrance to our daily routine.  Because of this slow onset, it can be difficult to tell if there were any changes in your diet or behavior that could have caused—and still be contributing to—your incontinence issues.

In order to determine the cause of your bladder leakage, it is valuable to keep an incontinence journal for at least 5-7 consecutive days. An incontinence journal can help you and your doctor pinpoint any dietary habits or behavior patterns that could be contributing to your bladder leakage, and is the first step in finding the right solution for your individual needs.

Below are the things you should include in your journal entries. Remember, it’s important to stay consistent and keep an accurate record of your fluid intake and leakage amount. It can be helpful to use a small notepad that can easily be transported and stowed. We’ve also included an Incontinence Journal Page (PDF) that you can print and use to record your bladder leakage.

We recommend filling out this journal page and reviewing it at your next appointment with your physician. It is also recommended to bring a list of your current medications to review with your physician.

What to Record

• Date and Time: It’s best to take note of every time you feel the urge to go and whenever you have a leak. Again, in order to get an accurate picture, try to log 5-7 days of journal entries.
• Fluid Intake (oz.): What was the last thing you had to drink right before urinating? How much did you have? (8 oz. juice, 12 oz. soda, etc.)
• Amount of Urine (oz.): For the most accurate recording, place an external urine collection device under your toilet seat. You can also use a disposable cup that can be rinsed and placed near your toilet until you have completed your incontinence journal.
• Leakage Amount: If leakage occurred, indicate whether you were damp or soaked after the incident.
• Activity During Leak: What were you doing right before you had a leak? Were you laughing or coughing? Try to be as detailed as possible.
• Urge? (Yes or No):  Did you feel the urge to go before the bladder leakage occurred?

Have some tips to add? Head over to our incontinence forum to discuss this topic with people just like you!