 Advice & Support - AS03 - Health & Wellbeing Advice

Health & Wellbeing Advice

Some women have a lot of questions about feminine hygiene tips and genital protection even though the genitals are just another part of the body and so, in principle, they just need to be kept clean and problem-free as part of a normal daily intimate hygiene regime.

However, it is certainly a delicate area. It has a scent unique to each individual (which is normal and natural), comes into contact with discharge, urine, period blood and sweat, and is not normally well-ventilated. This means that specific daily feminine hygiene tips should be followed for this area, every day or on specific days of the cycle, but take care not to become obsessed or “over-clean” – too much cleaning in this area can be just as harmful as not enough.

ADP - Feminine intimate hygiene tips

Feminine intimate hygiene tips

ADP - Urinary incontinence and sport 

ADP - What does the colour of urine mean and what does it indicate?

What does the colour of urine indicate?

The colour of your urine __can be a sign of an illness__. If you notice any of the following colour changes, you should consult a doctor:

- __Red__ – this colour is not uncommon and is a symptom of a [bladder or kidney infection](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/health-and-wellbeing/bladder-infection-symptoms/). In rare cases, it may indicate a malignant disease, such as cancer of the urinary or genital tract.
- __Brown__ – This colour of urine can occur in people with kidney disease or porphyria, which is characterised by disorders in the normal processing of haemoglobin in the blood.
- __Orange__ – This may indicate liver disease or a problem with the bile ducts.

__Blue urine__ is very rare. It can occur in people with __hypercalcaemia__, a condition in which there is __an excessive amount of calcium__ in the blood. If you notice blue urine, you should see a doctor immediately.

- __Sudden changes in urine colour are not always a cause for concern__. Often, they are the result of __eating certain foods__ that can discolour the urine:
- __Red__ – this colour can be caused by beetroot, blackberries, or beetroot leaves, which contain betanin, a pigment that induces a colour change.
- __Green__ – this colour can be due to asparagus or spinach.
- __Orange__ – this colour can result from the beta-carotene found in carrots and carrot juice.

Other urine colours beyond the usual yellow can be due to the following reasons:

- __Taking laxatives__, which can cause a large amount of fluid to be removed from the body, resulting in orange-coloured urine.
- __Intense physical activity__, such as in competitive sports, which can lead to colourless urine – urine that is too clear and transparent can also __indicate excessive fluid intake__.

Pregnant women, in particular, __should pay attention to the colour of their urine__. While it is completely normal for them to urinate frequently, the colour of their urine should be yellow or pale yellow. __White, green, or red urine, for example, can indicate a bacterial infection that could ultimately lead to premature labour__. Therefore, it is essential to see a gynaecologist immediately if this occurs.

If __the colour of your urine remains red or green for several days without change__, even after eating the foods like beetroot, asparagus, or taking certain medications, you should __consult a doctor__ to be on the safe side. This way, you can find out exactly what is happening in your body.

You should also see a doctor if __red, brown, or orange urine occurs along with other symptoms__. These include, for example, frequent urination in small amounts (even just a few drops at a time), [incontinence](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/bladder-problems/female-bladder-leakage-types-and-treatment), as well as pressure on the urethra and severe pressure in the lower abdomen. These may indicate a bladder infection.

Read more about incontinence.

If you are experiencing bladder leaks, you can use different products for protection. You can choose between sensitive bladder liners, pads, or pants depending on your preference and absorbency needs. 


What does the colour of urine mean?

Depending on your flow, change your pad or tampon every 3 to 4 hours, or before it gets soaked through. Concentrating on this aspect of feminine care will help you to avoid intimate irritation (such as itching and discomfort) and help to prevent intimate odours. It also reduces the risk of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome).

Change your protection regularly

Urinary incontinence is common, particularly in women, and many experience symptoms during exercise. Although it can feel embarrassing, it is a recognised medical condition and effective treatments are available.

### Why are women more affected?

The pelvic floor is a hammock of muscles which supports the organs of the pelvis, if the pelvic floor gets weaker, as the pressure in the abdomen rises, for example on coughing, or running, bladder leaks can occur.  The major risk factors are pregnancy and vaginal birth and likelihood increases with larger babies, prolonged labour and multiple births. During and after the menopause, lower oestrogen levels can affect the tissues of the bladder, urethra and vagina, sometimes contributing to urinary symptoms. 

### Why does this problem particularly affect women who participate in sports?

Leakage is more likely during high impact activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as running, jumping, aerobics or heavy lifting. Some women notice symptoms during activities like CrossFit where breath holding and straining increase pressure further. Prolonged cycling where you don’t stand up in the saddle can also cause issues. It is common, but that doesn’t mean that it is normal and you certainly don’t have to put up with it.

What is urinary incontinence in physically active people?

ADP - Unusual urine odour – what does it indicate?

Advice from our Experts

Do you think your urine smells unusual? Find out what is causing the unusual odour of your urine.

Unusual urine odour – what does it indicate?

ADP - Urinary incontinence and sport

Is blood in the urine harmless?

We recommend wearing underwear that’s 100% cotton, due to its breathability.

Choose the right underwear

How can blood in the urine be detected?

ADP - When You Have to Go and Go and Go: Symptoms of a Bladder Infection

Feminine Intimate Hygiene Tips

Another very important feminine hygiene tip is that, in addition to washing, protection is also important. For small bladder leakages, you may consider trying light incontinence liners. To be effective, incontinence liners should be changed as often as necessary (depending on the absorbency).

It is advisable to wear underwear made from natural fibres. These should be changed at least once a day. You can wear synthetic underwear, but if you experience irritation then you should switch to cotton.

The skin in the vulva area can be more sensitive than other areas of the body, especially when you’ve got your period. Here’s a guide to feminine care and intimate hygiene.

Good protection

ADP - Blood in the urine (hematuria) – symptoms and causes

Blood in the urine (hematuria) – symptoms and causes

Urine is __produced during the filtration of blood by the kidneys__. During this process, all substances necessary for the body return to the bloodstream, while the excess substances are __excreted in the urine through the urethra__. 

Urine __consists of__: 

- __Water__, which makes up about 96% of its content;
- __Nitrogenous metabolic products__, including urea, ammonia, and uric acid – 2.5%;
- __Mineral salts__, such as chlorides, phosphates, and carbonates – 1.5%;
- Small amounts of __substances that affect the smell and colour of urine__, including bile pigments.

A healthy person should pass between 600 and 2,500 ml of urine approximately six times a day. __The colour of urine is determined by the content of various components__, such as urobilinogen or bilirubin.

What affects urine colour?

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Talking to a doctor about weak bladder can help you find a solution and improve your quality of life. Find out what you can expect during a visit.

ADP - Talking to a doctor about weak bladder

Talking to a doctor about weak bladder

Middle aged woman talking to a doctor in ordination

OG-Talking-to-a-doctor-about-weak-bladder

If you feel like you are experiencing bladder infection symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor. He or she will test your urine to determine whether you have an infection.

When You Have to Go and Go and Go: Symptoms of a Bladder Infection

A group of middle aged women laughing and running

When You Have to Go and Go and Go

Wearing tight-fitting clothing can get in the way of your intimate hygiene. Try to avoid tight workout clothes and choose well-ventilated clothing instead.

Wear loose clothing

Symptoms of a Bladder Infection

Unusual Urine Odour

Urinary incontinence is a challenge many active women face, yet few feel comfortable talking about it. Whether during running, CrossFit, or long hours on the bike, leaking urine while exercising can turn an empowering workout into a source of stress and embarrassment. Despite how common it is, incontinence and sport remain surrounded by silence, making women believe they are alone in their struggles. In this article, we open the conversation, break the taboo, and show that there are effective ways to stay active and enjoy movement without discomfort or fear.

How to deal with urinary incontinence during physical activity

Are you worried about blood in your urine? Find out what red blood cells in urine might indicate.

Blood in the urine – Symptoms and Causes

Some women have a lot of questions about feminine hygiene tips. Visit our website and we&#39;ll try to answer them all

Why does urine have an odour?

What does blood in the urine mean?

What are the most common causes of blood in the urine?

If the __colour of your urine changes__, it may indicate a medical condition that should be investigated.
![Urine colour](//images.ctfassets.net/aqfuj2z95p5p/6YtTW4tjK5SJgcnipu0ZlU/d66eb4b186a516c57b1ff6ce95443d4c/Picture1.png)

Urine colour

Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

What else can blood in urine indicate?

Dr. Anne Henderson - Discreet

Dr. Anne Henderson

Article reviewed by

Experiencing leakage during exercise does not mean you have to give up training; there are proven steps that can help reduce and eliminate symptoms. 

Pelvic floor muscle training is the first line treatment; you should aim to perform pelvic floor exercises at least three times a day for a minimum of three months. This usually includes:

- up to 10 slow contractions held for up to 10 seconds each
- followed by 10 quick contractions
- repeating the programme three times daily

If you are unsure whether you are exercising correctly, a women’s health physiotherapist can assess and guide you. Apps like the Squeezy app are also useful.

Other helpful measures include:

- maintaining a healthy weight
- avoiding constipation and managing chronic cough
- emptying the bladder before high impact exercise
- gradually increasing exercise intensity rather than sudden changes
- considering lower impact exercise while strengthening the pelvic floor

For women after the menopause, local vaginal oestrogen may improve urinary symptoms and is available over the counter or from your GP.

While you are waiting for your pelvic floor strength to increase, or for referrals to physio or for other treatment, using the right protective incontinence products can help maintain confidence and comfort. Absorbent pads and underwear for incontinence are engineered to lock in odour and fluid quickly. This distinction matters, especially in situations requiring running bladder control, as it allows women to stay active without distraction.

### Change your training style and routine

Sometimes, modifying your approach to exercise is just as important as strengthening your body. 

__Small adjustments — such as emptying the bladder before training, warming up properly, and including stretching — can also help minimize leakage episodes during activity.__

### Consultation with a urogynaecological physiotherapist

When symptoms remain persistent, consulting a specialist is an essential step. A urogynaecological physiotherapist can assess the function of the pelvic floor, correct improper muscle activation, and recommend advanced therapies such as biofeedback or electrostimulation. For women who struggle with a weak bladder when running or ongoing incontinence sport, this professional support often marks the turning point between frustration and long-term improvement.

### If symptoms persist

If leakage continues despite doing your pelvic floor exercises please see your GP, who may refer you to a women’s health/pelvic health physio or to a gynaecologist for further treatment which can include surgery and other options.

Seek medical advice urgently if you have blood in your urine, pain when passing urine, recurrent urinary infections, or if incontinence develops suddenly.

But remember, exercise is good for you, both physically and mentally, we have to keep moving our bodies so get help if you have bladder leaks!


How to deal with urinary incontinence during sports?

Do you want to know what the colour of your urine means? Find out what the colour red or orange means.

 Advice & Support - AS02 - Managing Urinary Incontinence

Managing Urinary Incontinence

 Advice & Support - AS02 - Health & Wellbeing Advice

__Light yellow__ or __yellow__ urine corresponds to the normal colour.

There may be __slight differences in shade__, but these __do not indicate any pathological changes__. These may occur due to the following reasons:

- __proper hydration__ – very pale (almost white) urine indicates a lot of water intake, while dark yellow urine may suggest that you need to drink more fluids.
- __an excess of certain substances in the body__ – if your urine is bright yellow, it is often due to a high intake of B vitamins, including B12. The following applies here: There is no reason to worry!

What colour is normal urine? Yellow or light yellow is the right colour

Bringing up bladder sensitivity can feel awkward, so consider saying “I have to use the toilet a lot more” or 'I'm experiencing bladder sensitivity' to encourage your doctor to ask further questions. Your doctor will ask you a few questions: “When do you experience urinary losses?” and “How often do you go to the toilet?”. Then you’ll need to lie down for a physical examination and cough so your doctor can inspect the way your abdomen contracts and check the firmness of your pelvic floor. If you would prefer to have a female doctor undertake the examination please do not hesitate to let the clinic you are attending know this. You also have the right to a chaperone being present during the appointment.

What to expect

Dr. Judith Bildau - Discreet

Dr. Judith Bildau

Dr. Philippa Kaye - Discreet

Dr. Philippa Kaye

All of us should observe the colour of our urine, as it is an important indicator of the state of health of our body. The colour of urine can vary, and any change of it may hint that something is wrong. Find out what red, brown, or yellow urine indicates.

What should you do if you have strong smelling urine?

Blood in urine can initially seem alarming, but in many cases the causes are harmless. Nevertheless, it is important to consult a doctor to exclude more serious conditions and to receive the appropriate treatment. In this article, you will learn what blood in the urine can indicate, its possible causes and symptoms, and what treatment options are available.


What affects urine odour?

Dr. Jessica Muir - Discreet

Dr. Jessica Muir

Cleanse your intimate parts gently with warm water or gently rinse the area while showering. Avoid using products that may alter your vaginal pH levels. Wash with warm water.

Keep clean

High-impact training and sudden increases in abdominal pressure are the most common triggers of leakage. For example:

-	__incontinence and jogging/running__ – repetitive impact with every stride increases downward pressure on the bladder, often leading to leakage in women with weakened pelvic floor support;
-	__HIT and weight training incontinence__ – heavy lifts, box jumps, and explosive core exercises create sharp spikes in intra-abdominal pressure, making leakage more likely if the pelvic floor cannot counteract the strain;
-	__cycling and incontinence__ – long periods of saddle pressure and poor posture can irritate the pelvic floor and exacerbate existing weaknesses; changing your posture, ensuring you stand up in the saddle regularly and padded seats and shorts can help;
-	__incontinence and swimming__ – swimming is usually pelvic floor–friendly, as the water supports the body and reduces impact; however, intense core engagement or forceful push-offs from the wall may still trigger symptoms in some individuals.

Sport and urinary incontinence – why do leakage occur during exercise?

You may feel it’s too embarrassing to discuss, or maybe you don’t think there are treatment options available, but talking to a doctor about it can help you find a solution and improve your quality of life.

One way to clean the outer part of the genitals (the vulva) is with warm water and PH neutral product (without colourants, perfumes, SLS etc…) while bathing or showering. To clean the vulva, you should stand with your legs apart and place the soap directly onto your hand (do not use gloves or a sponge). It is not necessary or advisable to clean inside the genitals (the vagina). The vagina normally cleans itself – the walls of the vagina produce a cleansing discharge (vaginal discharge) which carries dead cells and other microorganisms out of the body. Vaginal douching is not recommended, unless advised by a doctor.

Make sure to use the right feminine intimate hygiene product as some, especially those with scents, may cause allergies or irritation.

The vulva should be washed at least once a day. If you do not wish to take a shower, you could use a bidet. During your period you should wash yourself often.

Feminine hygiene tips: the genitals

Keeping your intimate skin clean and dry is important. For example, after swimming or doing sports, remove wet bathing suits and exercise clothing promptly. Feminine care begins with keeping yourself dry and free from bacteria and chemicals.

Keep dry

Talk to a Doctor: Weak Bladder

Find out how to deal with urinary incontinence during physical activity like running, jogging, cycling, swimming. 

Urinary incontinence and sport | Always Discreet

If you have to run to the toilet what feels like a million times a day, only to find little to nothing comes out, (yet you still feel like you have to go), you may have a bladder infection. We know what it’s like to have to visit the loo a lot. However, what about when urination is painful?

This may be a sign that you have a bladder infection, and you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Treatment is simple, but important, as infections can spread to other parts of your body, like your kidneys. Left untreated, the infection can travel up your urinary tract, causing a much more serious condition.

Bacteria such as E.coli can cause [bladder infections.](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/menopause/coping-with-menopause) These bacteria live on your skin and in your intestinal tract without a problem. However, when they are introduced into your urinary system, they can cause a bladder infection, resulting in uncomfortable swelling and irritation. These bacteria can get into your urinary tract through things like sex, wiping from back to front after you have emptied your bowels, or using a diaphragm for birth control.

If you feel like you are experiencing bladder infection symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor. He or she will test your urine to determine whether you have an infection.

If you have a bladder infection, your doctor will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics, and recommend medication that relieves pain in your abdomen and when you urinate. Remember, it’s crucial that you finish all the antibiotics your doctor has prescribed, even if you are feeling better, otherwise the infection may flare up again, requiring another round of treatment. Here are some signs that you might have a bladder infection.

Bladder infection symptoms include:

- Painful urination
- Sudden and frequent urge to urinate
- Passing only a small amount of urine despite feeling an intense urge to urinate
- Bladder spasm, especially when trying to urinate
- Abdominal pain

Experiencing a fever or feeling 'chills', having blood in the urine (haematuria), in addition to these symptoms is a sign that the infection may have spread to your kidneys. If this is the case, seek medical attention immediately.

If you do have a bladder infection, be sure to drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to flush out bacteria from your urinary tract. Also, overly-concentrated urine is acidic, and will aggravate your bladder infection symptoms. So, drink up and stay hydrated!

Urine Colour: What Does It Mean?

Urine should have a subtle, almost unnoticeable smell, but abnormalities can occur, resulting in a stronger odour. Should this be a cause for concern? Find out about it in this article.


Incontinence and Sport

Once the examination is over, your doctor will let you know whether your condition is due to muscle weakness, and if you’re experiencing [urge incontinence](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/bladder-problems/bladder-weakness-in-women) (when you have a strong need to urinate but can't reach the toilet in time),  [stress incontinence](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/bladder-problems/bladder-weakness-in-women)  (when you experience sensitive bladder when coughing, sneezing or laughing) or a [mixed incontinence](/en-gb/discreet/incontinence-advice/bladder-problems/bladder-weakness-in-women).

Talking to your doctor about sensitive bladder symptoms will help you look for solutions together. From pelvic floor exercises to bladder retraining or medication, there is a range of solutions and your doctor should talk to you about them. Considering your options and doing some research before the appointment can help ensure you request the support that you feel will work for you. No matter which solution you decide upon, rest assured that there are incontinence products to support you while you make a decision.

The diagnosis

Urine smells differently — what does that mean?

What does the colour of urine mean and what does it indicate?

ADP - What does the colour of urine indicate?

Night Ultra Size 3 With Wings

Always Discreet Maxi Comfort Pads 8 Drop 6 ct

Always Discreet long pads, sensitive bladder, 5 drops, 10 count, without wings, complete protection. Plastic pack front panel in purple, Always logo dark purple.

Always Discreet Incontinence Pads Long 10 ct

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Always Discreet Plus Large incontinence pants packaging