Bladder Control During Pregnancy (Urinary Incontinence)

Help! Urine is leaking, and I really don’t want it to!

Urinary incontinence is a very common problem, affecting up to 1 in 3 women. If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence, you’re likely looking for answers. Specifically, what can you do to stop it?

So first of all, why does that happen? Urine leaks when you exert pressure on your bladder by coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising, or lifting something heavy. I remember working in the office when I was pregnant and after sneezing I had to leave and go home as embarrassingly I had leaked.

So what can you do? Performing pelvic floor strengthening is not just in the form of Kegels, but other strengthening methods integrated with core strengthening and this can help you prevent leakage. I’ve put some videos on strengthening the pelvic floor and also on releasing pelvic floor tension with the breath.

If you notice any pressure in your vagina, any bulging from your vagina while passing urine or otherwise, you need to consult your physical therapist or OBGYN to rule out pelvic organ prolapse. If you’re doing the exercises and the leakage of urine is prolonged for more than six weeks postpartum and it’s getting worse, then I recommend you see your pelvic floor therapist.