Blasentraining

Blasentraining, or bladder training, is a non-pharmacological behavioral approach used to manage urinary urgency, urge incontinence, and related storage problems. The goal is to increase bladder capacity and improve the storage phase by retraining voiding habits and reducing episodes of urgency.

A typical program includes scheduled voiding with gradually extended intervals between bathroom visits, a bladder diary to record voiding times and leakage, and techniques to suppress urgent sensations. Pelvic floor muscle exercises may be incorporated when appropriate. The training is usually supervised by a clinician and tailored to the individual.

Indications include overactive bladder, mixed urinary incontinence, nocturia, and detrusor overactivity. In children, bladder training is used for daytime incontinence or enuresis as part of a behavioral program, often alongside treatment of constipation and bowel routines.

Evidence from systematic reviews indicates bladder training can reduce urgency and leakage and improve quality of life, particularly when combined with other non-pharmacological strategies. Outcomes vary with adherence and patient selection.

Limitations include the need for motivation and time, and it may be less effective when there are underlying infections, obstructions, or neurological conditions. Blasentraining is typically considered as part of a broader plan that may also include lifestyle adjustments and, if needed, pharmacotherapy.