Postpartum incontinence – is it normal?

There’s a lot to adjust to as you find your feet as a new mum – the rollercoaster of emotions as hormones shift, the disrupted sleep, the seemingly endless cycle of feeding, burping and changing nappies… Amidst all this, many of you will be dealing with a range of postpartum issues such as incontinence.

Is it normal? Will I ever regain control of my bladder? Should I just accept it as being part and parcel of being a mother? These are just some of the questions our doctors have been asked. And we’ve got all the answers below.

What causes postpartum incontinence?

Your body undergoes huge changes during pregnancy and birth. The strain this process puts on your body can weaken your pelvic floor muscles. Assisted delivery methods such as forceps can also impact these muscles, as can pressure from a large baby. Nerves that control the bladder can also become damaged during pregnancy and childbirth. And finally, hormonal changes such as the postpartum drop in oestrogen can play a part too.

How common is it?

Postpartum incontinence is fairly common and around one third of new mothers will experience it. However, just because it is a common issue experienced by many women, doesn’t mean you have to just accept it. The team here at YourGP understand how annoying, unpredictable, embarrassing and upsetting many women find bladder leaks, and we appreciate what an impact it can have on your everyday life. We therefore feel strongly that postpartum incontinence is not something mothers should “just put up with”. We will listen to your concerns and help you find a way to regain control.

Is postpartum incontinence permanent?

For most, it is a temporary issue and full bladder control will return within 3 to 6 months after giving birth.

How can it be treated?

One of the best ways to regain bladder control is by repeating pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels:

• Sit or lie down and relax
• Slowly squeeze the muscles you use to stop the flow of urine
• Aim to hold them for 10 seconds, then release
• Repeat this 10 times
• Follow this with 10 fast squeezes
• Repeat this routine at least twice a day

What other things do you recommend?

There are several lifestyle changes that can also make a difference to your bladder control:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and urinary tract infections.
• Avoid bladder irritants: Limit or avoid caffeine, alcohol and acidic foods.
• Eat more fibre: A high-fibre diet will help to prevent constipation, which puts strain on your pelvic floor.
• Manage your weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce pressure on your bladder.
• Train your bladder: Avoid going to the toilet “just in case” and only go to the toilet when you feel the need to urinate. This can help to re-train your bladder.

Speak to the experts

If you don’t see any improvements after following the steps above, book an appointment at YourGP. As a new mum, we understand it can be hard to find time for yourself, but it is so important to look after your health and wellbeing.

We have short-notice appointments available, plus we’re open on Saturdays and later on Thursdays, so you can choose a time that suits you (and fits around your baby’s nap schedule!)

You can book an appointment using our simple online booking system. Or you can email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to help you regain control.