Major change could prove life-changing for millions of women plagued by embarrassing condition

MILLIONS of women could benefit from a major change in how they access treatment for a bladder condition. 

The symptoms can be both embarrassing and debilitating - but that could all change if a key drug becomes available over-the-counter. 

It would be the first time women would be able to get medicine to treat overactive bladder without a prescription. 

Minister for Women’s Health Maria Caulfield said: “The stigmas and barriers we face as women when it comes to our health must be knocked down and improved. 

“Making it as easy as possible for women to access the healthcare they need, for me, is a big part of closing the gender health gap so women can live healthier, happier lives.”

The Department for Health said oxybutynin hydrochloride (Aquiette) is being considered for reclassification, meaning it could be given out by pharmacists. 

These tablets are used to treat women with milder symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) who haven’t seen a benefit with bladder training techniques, such as pelvic floor exercises.

Symptoms of OAB  include having to urinate at least eight times in the day, more than once during the night, sometimes leading to accidental leaks.

This isn’t the same as stress incontinence, which is when someone leaks when they sneeze, cough or laugh.

Around 12 per cent of the total adult population suffer from OAB, according to .

But Ms Caulfield said: “Certain events which may take place in a woman’s life, including pregnancy and childbirth, can increase our chances of being affected.

“For some women, having to go to their GP to get this medication may stop them either because they feel embarrassed, don’t have the time, or don’t consider the problem to be serious enough.

“Reclassification of Aquiette would enable women to access vital medication without needing a prescription.

“Mild incontinence is an issue which we rarely hear or talk about but affects millions of people.