7 Ways Winter Can Affect Incontinence & How to Manage It
For many people, bladder leaks feel more noticeable once the temperatures drop, especially during a New York winter. Between cold winds, dry indoor heat, bulky clothing, and changes in daily routines, winter can put extra stress on your bladder and your skin.
If you’ve noticed more urgency or more frequent leaks in the colder months, these changes are common, and the good news is that they’re manageable with the right habits and supplies.
At CityDME, we help New Yorkers access the incontinence products they need through insurance whenever possible. Below, we’re breaking down seven ways winter can affect incontinence, and simple steps to help you stay comfortable.
1. Cold Weather Can Trigger More Frequent Urination (Cold Diuresis)
When your body is exposed to cold temperatures, it pulls blood away from your arms and legs and moves it closer to your core to stay warm. This causes your kidneys to produce more urine, a response known as cold diuresis.
More urine production = more trips to the bathroom.
And if urgency is already a challenge, stepping outside into freezing air may make leaks more likely.
Try this:
- Dress warmly in layers before going outside
- Keep a regular bathroom schedule
- Plan ahead when running errands or traveling
2. Muscle Tension From the Cold Can Make Leakage Worse
Cold weather naturally makes your muscles tighten, including the muscles around your bladder and pelvic floor. When these muscles stay tense, urgency and stress incontinence can feel more pronounced.
Try this:
- Warm up your body before going outside
- Stretch gently throughout the day
- Keep your core warm with sweaters or thermal layers
3. Winter Dehydration Can Irritate the Bladder
It’s easy to forget to drink water in winter when you don’t feel as thirsty. But dehydration can make the bladder more sensitive, leading to:
- Burning sensations
- Stronger urgency
- More leaks
Try this:
- Sip water through the day instead of drinking large amounts at once
- Watch for signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, headaches)
- Limit dehydrating beverages like soda and alcohol
4. Hot Drinks Are Comforting… but They’re Also Bladder Irritants
Coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and flavored winter beverages can irritate the bladder lining. Many people drink more of them during cold months, which may worsen urgency and frequency.
Try this:
- Choose decaf or herbal teas
- Add one non-irritating drink for every caffeinated drink
- Sip slowly to avoid overwhelming the bladder
5. Dry Winter Air Can Make Skin Irritation More Common
Between indoor heating and cold outdoor air, winter is rough on skin, especially the delicate skin affected by incontinence. Moisture from leaks combined with dryness leads to higher risk of:
- Redness
- Chafing
- Cracked skin
- Skin breakdown
Try this:
- Use fragrance-free wipes
- Apply a moisture barrier cream regularly
- Choose breathable briefs or pull-ons
- Change products promptly after leaks
Explore CityDME’s selection of wipes, underpads, and incontinence products for added skin protection.
Explore Our Incontinence Supplies
6. Bulky Winter Clothing Makes Bathroom Trips Slower
Heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and layered clothing can make it harder to reach the bathroom quickly. Even a few extra seconds of fumbling can mean the difference between making it or not.
Try this:
- Wear pants with easy-to-open fasteners
- Choose layers you can remove quickly
- Keep pathways in your home clear to avoid slips or delays
7. Routine Changes Can Disrupt Your Bathroom Habits
Winter often means less walking, unpredictable weather, busier schedules, and more time indoors. All of this can disrupt your regular bathroom routine and contribute to leaks.
Try this:
- Create a bathroom schedule to get ahead of urgency
- Take short indoor walks to keep the bladder stimulated
- Avoid waiting too long between bathroom breaks
How to Manage Incontinence Throughout the Winter
Here’s a quick winter action plan:
- Stay warm — wear thermal layers outdoors
- Stay hydrated — aim for light-yellow urine
- Limit irritants, especially caffeine
- Use the right incontinence products for winter (breathable, absorbent, comfortable)
- Protect skin with barrier creams and gentle wipes
- Maintain a bathroom routine
- Stock up early before storms or holidays
Winter Skin Care Tips for Incontinence
Dryness, friction, and moisture are a tough combination on winter skin. Protect yourself by:
- Applying a zinc oxide or petrolatum-based barrier
- Using pH-balanced cleansers
- Choosing pads or briefs that wick moisture
- Keeping skin dry between product changes
If you notice rashes, burning, or sores that don’t heal, talk with your healthcare provider.
FAQ: Incontinence and Winter Weather
1. Why do I feel like I have to urinate more in cold weather?
Cold temperatures trigger cold diuresis, which increases urine production and makes urgency more noticeable.
2. Does winter make bladder leaks worse?
For many people, yes, cold exposure, dehydration, and extra clothing can all contribute.
3. What incontinence products are best for winter?
Products with:
- High absorbency
- Breathable materials
- Gentle skin protection
CityDME carries trusted brands like Presto®, TENA®, and Medline.
4. How can I prevent skin irritation in the winter?
Use fragrance-free wipes, barrier creams, and breathable products. Change products frequently and keep the area dry.
5. Does dehydration affect bladder leakage?
Yes. Dehydration can irritate the bladder and make urgency worse.
6. Should I talk to my doctor if my symptoms get worse this winter?
Yes — sudden changes, pain, or frequent UTIs should be evaluated.
Why New Yorkers Choose CityDME for Incontinence Supplies
CityDME makes it easier to manage incontinence year-round with:
- Insurance-covered products for qualifying customers
- Free, discreet home delivery across New York
- Trusted brands with options for every need
- Friendly support to help you find the right products
- Easy ordering and a simple Patient Form to check insurance coverage
Explore our full incontinence collection or submit your Patient Form today.
