Hot flushes, mood swings, sleepless nights and brain fog. These are the menopause challenges most women expect. But there’s another change in midlife that catches many of us off guard, and it’s rarely spoken about.
It often starts small. A cough that catches you out. A laugh that doesn’t quite go to plan. A brisk walk, a fitness class, or lifting groceries. Suddenly, a bladder leak.
Bladder leakage is a common experience during perimenopause and menopause, yet many women feel uncomfortable talking about it, even with close friends.
Why it happens
“As oestrogen levels fluctuate and then decline, the tissues that support the bladder and pelvic floor can become thinner and less elastic. For many women, this means occasional leaks during everyday activities,” explains naturopathic doctor and wellness consultant Amanda Roe, ND.
“Hormonal changes may lead to urgency, frequency, or leaks with a cough, laugh, or exercise. If this is your experience, you need to know that you’re not alone. It’s very common, and nothing to be embarrassed about,” she says.
Rethinking traditional solutions
Most women that experience occasional bladder leakage simply adapt but for some, it reshapes daily life. They wear darker clothing, map out bathroom stops, or avoid activities they once loved.
Disposable pads have long been the default to catch bladder leaks, but they’re far from ideal as they feel bulky, are often uncomfortable, and many women dislike the waste they create. In recent years, there has been a shift toward more discreet, wearable solutions designed to integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
Gisborne-based brand Mint has developed a stylish leak-proof underwear range designed specifically for women in midlife. The range is breathable, discreet and designed to absorb small leaks while feeling just like normal underwear.
“It’s important that women feel like themselves. That they’re comfortable, confident and can move through their day without constantly thinking about leaks.” says Bruna Rodrigues, founder of Mint and an advocate for women’s wellbeing.
“Unlike traditional cotton, our underwear is made from bamboo, which makes it softer, hypoallergenic, antibacterial, longer lasting, and more sustainable. It is gentle on the skin and features a discreet multi-layer lining to catch leaks.”
Expert advice
Dr Amanda Roe adds that menopause-related hormone changes can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections and urges women not to sweep the symptoms under the carpet as ‘just part of aging’.
“Addressing leaks and urgency early helps women access the right support, from healthcare guidance to pelvic floor exercises or practical products. Talking openly about it normalises the experience. It reminds us that we’re not alone and makes it easier to find solutions that restore confidence and comfort.”
Menopause may change the body in unexpected ways, but there’s no need for women in midlife and beyond to put their lives on hold. With the right support, women in midlife can laugh freely, stay active, and keep doing everything they enjoy.
The Mint Label has a premium range of reusable leak-proof underwear for period care, post-partum and midlife bladder leaks for all body shapes and ages in sizes 6 to 20. Crafted with bamboo sustainable and breathable materials, every piece is designed to be absorbent, 100% leakproof, safe and comfortable.
Their head office is based in Gisborne, New Zealand, with an additional warehouse and customer service office located on the Gold Coast, Australia.
