Pregnancy can feel like a season of constant bathroom visits. With a bladder that seems to shrink under the weight of a growing uterus, I often found myself rushing to the nearest restroom. I was under the impression that my bladder would return to its normal state after giving birth, much like my abs were supposed to (spoiler alert: they didn’t). I diligently practiced my Kegels during Pilates and slowly transitioned out of maternity wear. However, despite my efforts, my bladder continued to behave as if I were still pregnant.
Over the years, postpartum symptoms only intensified. Though I maintained an active lifestyle, frequently hitting the gym and enjoying healthy meals, the persistent urge to urinate became a frustrating reality. Sleep was a luxury I could no longer afford, as my bladder interrupted my rest at least twice each night. I was forced to make sacrifices like giving up watermelon and limiting my coffee intake. The tipping point came when, during a bike ride in Chicago, I found myself completely unable to control my bladder. I discarded my wet underwear and let my skort dry as I pedaled on. That day marked the beginning of my unhealthy attempts to limit fluid intake, which was ultimately ineffective.
Many women shy away from pelvic exams, and I was one of them. My reluctance stemmed from the fear of an embarrassing accident in front of my doctor, someone I knew personally. Our children attended preschool together, and she often joined my yoga class. The thought of peeing during an exam made me anxious, as I couldn’t fathom facing her afterward. Despite being able to perform Olympic lifts and handstands, I struggled to execute a proper Kegel when it mattered most during those exams.
Kegels helped me manage leakage during intimate moments and weightlifting but failed me during cycling or even when inserting a tampon. The harsh reality was that my attempts to control leakage also hindered my sexual pleasure; I was squeezing too tightly. What began as an enjoyable evening often ended in tears as I struggled to reach orgasm, torn between the fear of an accident and the desire for intimacy. My husband was understanding, but I was not ready to risk our mattress or the floor.
Eventually, I made another appointment but opted to see a nurse practitioner instead. I didn’t have to worry about running into her at the soccer field! I requested a referral to a pelvic floor rehabilitation specialist, traveling 40 miles to find one. After twelve weeks of dedicated physical therapy and consistent home exercises, I’m thrilled to share that my urge to urinate has significantly diminished to just five times a day. No more leakage during biking, jumping, or intimacy, and I’m finally able to enjoy restful nights without constant interruptions. Best of all, I’ve regained the ability to experience pleasure without the fear of an accident.
The “fourth trimester” isn’t all sunshine and joy; hormonal fluctuations and physical healing can feel overwhelming. As new mothers, we often focus solely on our babies’ well-being, forgetting about our own recovery. What many don’t realize is that pregnancy and childbirth take a toll on our pelvic floor muscles. Throughout pregnancy, these muscles are continually engaged to support the growing fetus, meaning they rarely get a break.
Having gone through four full-term pregnancies, I now understand that my pelvic floor issues stemmed from years of muscle strain and compromised impulse control. I learned that pelvic floor injuries can manifest in various ways, from muscle contractions to nerve damage, and even prolapse. The process of bringing new life into the world is sacred, yet it can leave us physically compromised if we don’t seek proper rehabilitation afterward.
Just like a sprained shoulder requires treatment, so too does a woman’s body after childbirth, whether vaginally or via C-section. We often assume our bodies will heal naturally, but this isn’t always the case. If you find yourself needing to urinate more than five times a day or experiencing leakage, it’s essential to consult your doctor about a referral to a pelvic floor rehabilitation specialist. In fact, 97% of women report positive outcomes with pelvic floor therapy.
For those considering pregnancy or currently expecting, it’s wise to discuss pelvic floor therapy with your healthcare provider early on. Your body will thank you for it!
In conclusion, it’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges that come with motherhood and to prioritize our health. If you’re dealing with postpartum incontinence, know that help is available, and you deserve to feel comfortable in your body again.
For more information on pelvic health, check out IVF Babble—a fantastic resource for pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re looking for more insights on this topic, consider visiting this post for additional information. You can also check out Make a Mom, which offers a comprehensive guide on at-home insemination kits.
Summary
Postpartum incontinence can have a profound impact on a woman’s life, affecting sleep and intimacy. Many women experience pelvic floor issues after childbirth, yet proper rehabilitation can lead to significant improvements. Consultation with a pelvic floor specialist can help restore comfort and confidence.