Postpartum urinary incontinence

Postpartum urinary incontinence: Why it happens and what to do?

Involuntary urine leakage when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting the baby — this is stress urinary incontinence, one of the most common and most hidden problems of the postpartum period. Many women consider it "normal" or are embarrassed to talk about it with a doctor, suffering in silence. It is important to know that this is not normal, but a medical condition that in most cases can and should be treated, primarily through specific exercises.

Causes of pelvic floor muscle weakening

The pelvic floor muscles are a powerful "hammock" that supports the uterus, bladder, and intestines. Pregnancy and childbirth are a serious test for them:

• Prolonged pressure. For nine months the pelvic floor muscles endured the constantly increasing weight of the uterus, fetus, and amniotic fluid.
• Hormonal influence. The hormone relaxin, produced during pregnancy, softens ligaments and muscles, making them more elastic but also weaker.
• Childbirth. During natural delivery the pelvic floor muscles stretch to extraordinary lengths to allow the baby to pass. This can lead to over‑stretching, tears, or nerve damage.

As a result, the weakened urethral sphincter can no longer perform its function, and any increase in intra‑abdominal pressure causes urine leakage. More details about other pelvic floor problems can be read in the relevant section.

Kegel exercises: Your main recovery tool

The most effective method for preventing and treating stress incontinence is regular Kegel exercises. These are purposeful contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. Proper performance of these exercises helps restore tone and control over the muscles.

It is important to do them regularly, starting already a few days after delivery (after consulting a doctor). If you are not sure you are doing them correctly, or the problem does not disappear within a few months, you should see a specialized physiotherapist. The process of physical recovery requires time and patience.