One in three women experience urinary incontinence postpartum. Most just live with it. They don’t have to.
By Sara Goldstein
Updated May. 21, 2026

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The persistent issue of urinary incontinence, particularly among women, has long been a silent struggle, often accepted as an unavoidable consequence of childbirth or aging. However, a significant shift in addressing this common yet often stigmatized condition is emerging with the introduction of Uresta, the first FDA-approved over-the-counter (OTC) bladder leak solution. This innovative device offers a non-prescription, self-administered approach to managing bladder leaks, marking a pivotal moment in women’s health accessibility and empowerment.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The personal narrative of experiencing an unexpected and significant bladder leak, even days after childbirth, highlights the abrupt and often disconcerting onset of postpartum incontinence. This experience, while deeply personal, is far from isolated. It underscores a broader reality for millions of women who grapple with varying degrees of urinary incontinence, a condition that statistics reveal is remarkably prevalent. Research indicates that approximately one in three women experience urinary incontinence within the first year postpartum. This figure escalates significantly with age, with up to 50% of women experiencing it by the time they reach menopause. Despite its widespread occurrence, the condition is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, with many women simply learning to live with the limitations it imposes on their daily lives.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The normalization of bladder leaks, particularly within active communities like a trampoline class, illustrates the societal acceptance of this issue as an unfortunate but expected part of life for many women. The shared humor and acceptance among participants in such activities reveal a collective coping mechanism, a way to acknowledge a shared experience without dwelling on the underlying medical concern. However, this very normalization, according to Lauren Barker, co-founder and CEO of Uresta, is a significant part of the problem. Barker, herself a mother, points out that while bladder leaks may not be life-threatening, they have a substantial impact on a woman’s quality of life, and accepting them as inevitable overlooks the potential for effective solutions.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Historical context reveals that while various solutions have existed, their accessibility and efficacy have been limited. Pelvic floor physical therapy is widely recognized as beneficial, yet it is frequently under-referred in many healthcare systems. For instance, while women in France and the UK often receive automatic referrals to pelvic floor physiotherapists postpartum, such referrals in the United States and Canada can depend heavily on individual provider discretion. Prescription pessaries, another option, require a physician’s fitting, a process described as potentially invasive and often involving a series of trials and adjustments, with a reported retention rate of only 16%. These limitations underscore the need for more accessible and user-friendly interventions.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Understanding Uresta: A Novel Approach to Bladder Leakage

Uresta represents a groundbreaking advancement in the management of bladder leaks by offering an FDA-approved, over-the-counter solution that can be fitted at home without a prescription. Barker likens the device to "a bra for your bladder," a simple yet effective analogy that captures its supportive function. The Uresta device is designed to be inserted vaginally, resting below the urethra. Its unique wide bell shape provides counter-pressure, effectively supporting the urethra during moments of increased abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or jumping. This mechanism prevents involuntary urine leakage without obstructing the flow of urine, allowing for normal urination while the device is in place.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The Uresta system comes in five sizes, with a starter kit typically including three common sizes (small, medium, and large), which are designed to accommodate approximately 90% of women. The company offers to send alternative sizes free of charge if the initial selection is not the optimal fit, ensuring that users can find the correct size for effective leak control and comfort. The key to proper fitting is ensuring that the device is inserted sufficiently far to clear the pubic bone and rest in the correct position. If discomfort is experienced, it often indicates that the device may not be inserted deeply enough, a common point of adjustment that is similar to using a menstrual cup.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Personal Experience and Efficacy Testing

The author’s firsthand experience with Uresta, drawing on her familiarity with menstrual cups and her own postpartum recovery journey, provides valuable insight into the product’s usability and effectiveness. The insertion process, while slightly more involved than with a collapsible menstrual cup due to Uresta’s solid, top-shaped design, is manageable, especially with lubrication. Once correctly positioned, the device reportedly becomes imperceptible, offering no sensation or discomfort.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

A practical test during a trampoline class demonstrated Uresta’s efficacy. Despite engaging in high-impact movements, the author experienced no bladder leaks, a significant improvement from previous experiences where such activities would invariably lead to leakage. The device was forgotten during the workout and was easily removed later, with no impact on normal urination. Uresta can be worn for extended periods, including overnight, addressing concerns about nighttime leaks.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Clinical Considerations and Future Outlook

While Uresta provides immediate relief from bladder leaks, it is important to note that it is not designed as a pelvic floor strengthening device. Continued engagement in pelvic floor exercises remains crucial for overall pelvic health. However, clinical studies conducted by Uresta have not indicated any worsening of incontinence with the use of the device.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The broader implication of Uresta’s availability lies in its potential to transform the lives of millions of women. By providing an accessible, non-prescription solution, it empowers women to reclaim their active lifestyles, social engagements, and overall confidence, free from the worry of bladder leaks. As Barker emphasizes, women often underestimate the extent to which leaks impact their daily lives until the issue is resolved. The normalization of urinary incontinence has created a silent epidemic, where many women resign themselves to a reduced quality of life. Uresta offers a tangible pathway to breaking free from these limitations.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

The product’s availability through uresta.com, with a starter kit priced at $65 and including a free size exchange, makes it a financially viable option for many. Furthermore, its eligibility for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) further enhances its accessibility. The successful integration of Uresta into daily life, as demonstrated by its effectiveness in high-impact activities, suggests a promising future for women seeking discreet, effective, and empowering solutions for bladder incontinence. The journey from experiencing an embarrassing leak to finding a reliable solution highlights the critical role of innovation in addressing overlooked women’s health issues and reclaiming a sense of normalcy and freedom.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uresta

Is Uresta FDA approved?
Yes, Uresta is the first and only FDA-approved reusable over-the-counter bladder support device available in the United States. This approval signifies that the device has met rigorous safety and efficacy standards, allowing consumers to purchase and use it without a prescription or a doctor’s fitting appointment. The FDA clearance is a critical factor in establishing trust and credibility for the product.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

How much does Uresta cost?
The Uresta Starter Kit is priced at $65. This kit includes three sizes (small, medium, and large), which are designed to fit approximately 90% of women. The devices are reusable, but the manufacturer recommends replacement after one year of use to ensure optimal hygiene and performance. Uresta is also eligible for reimbursement through Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which can make the cost more manageable for many consumers.

I tested the only FDA-approved OTC bladder leak solution at trampoline class. It passed.

Can you use Uresta postpartum?
Yes, Uresta is particularly beneficial for postpartum women, as incontinence is a common issue during this period. The device can be used shortly after childbirth, provided the user is comfortable with insertion. It’s important to note that the optimal size for Uresta might change as a woman’s body recovers postpartum. For example, hormonal changes related to breastfeeding can sometimes influence bladder control. Uresta offers a free size exchange within 30 days if the starter kit sizes do not provide the correct fit, ensuring users can find the most effective size for their needs during their postpartum recovery.