Thread: For the ladies
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Old 11-04-2009, 05:49 PM   #6 (permalink)
BethU
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Default Re: For the ladies

Sandra, I developed problems wearing heels in my 50s, long before ALS, but I have a friend in her 80s who still wears spikes. (Never say die!) But she never walks far. I don't associate it with ALS, but I do hate the sturdy shoes I have to wear now with my brace. I wouldn't think it really has anything to do with ALS.

As for incontinence, I had a little stress incontinence before ALS, but it's gone away since I developed Lou Gehrig's, which is the only good thing I've experienced with this disease. It may be related to less fluid intake, or may just be a temporary thing. It is common in women who have had natural childbirth, and in women who have had hysterectormies (me). In the latter case, there is simply more room in the abdomen, and organs shift around, and the bladder may be tipped from its normal position. In the former, the muscles aren't as tight, and again, internal organs can shift position.

As Rose said, those little panty liners work very well, and eliminate the worry when you leave the house. There are surgeries that can help ... one is major and complicated, one is minor and doesn't require cutting (they prop the bladder back into its correct position with silicone injections) ... but if it's a small problem in your life, little pads are easier when you're out and about.
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