What is prenatal incontinence and why does it happen?

Pregnancy is a beautiful, life-changing experience, but it can also come with some unexpected challenges—one of them being incontinence. Yes, it’s common for expectant mothers to experience bladder leakage at some point during pregnancy. Whether it’s from a sudden cough, sneeze, or just laughing a little too hard, these leaks can be embarrassing but are often a natural part of pregnancy. But why does it happen?

During pregnancy, your body goes through a lot of changes, especially in the abdominal area. As your baby grows, the weight of the uterus presses down on your bladder, causing more frequent urges to go and sometimes leakage when you least expect it. Hormonal changes also play a role, as they can relax the muscles that control bladder function. The pelvic floor muscles—responsible for holding up your bladder and other organs—are stretched out and weakened as well. This can cause difficulty in fully controlling your bladder, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

Common symptoms of prenatal incontinence

You might notice a few different signs of incontinence during pregnancy. The most common is stress incontinence, where you leak small amounts of urine when you cough, laugh, sneeze, or engage in other physical activities. Some women also experience urgency incontinence, which is the sudden, intense need to urinate, followed by an inability to make it to the bathroom on time. This happens because the increased pressure on the bladder can make it harder to hold it in.

For many women, the incontinence is temporary and tends to improve after childbirth. However, the experience can still be frustrating, particularly if it interrupts your daily routine. There’s no need to feel embarrassed about it—many women go through this, and it’s part of the process of your body adjusting to growing a baby.

How can prenatal incontinence be diagnosed?

In most cases, prenatal incontinence doesn’t require an official diagnosis because it’s considered a normal symptom of pregnancy. However, if the symptoms are severe or causing significant discomfort, your healthcare provider might want to assess your pelvic floor health. They might ask you questions about when you experience leaks, the frequency of them, and whether there are any other associated symptoms. In some cases, they may perform a pelvic exam or recommend seeing a pelvic floor therapist to strengthen those muscles.

If your symptoms seem to be getting worse or are causing you distress, it’s always a good idea to bring it up with your OB-GYN. They’ll be able to rule out other potential causes and offer tailored advice on how to manage the incontinence during pregnancy.

Effective treatments for managing prenatal incontinence

Good news: there are a lot of ways to manage incontinence during pregnancy, and it doesn’t mean you have to be confined to your home all the time! One of the most effective treatments is pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises. These exercises help strengthen the muscles that control the bladder, and when done regularly, they can improve bladder control. It’s a great, natural way to help your body bounce back faster after delivery too.

You might also find that changing how you hydrate can make a difference. While you definitely want to stay hydrated during pregnancy, you may want to avoid drinking too much at once or holding in urine for long periods of time. Emptying your bladder regularly can help reduce the pressure on your bladder.

For women who experience more severe symptoms, your doctor might recommend incontinence products like adult diapers or absorbent pads. SPC incontinence products, for example, offer excellent absorbency and comfort, helping you stay dry and confident even during your busiest days. These products can be especially helpful when you’re out and about, providing that extra layer of protection while you focus on enjoying your pregnancy.

How can incontinence products help during pregnancy?

Incontinence products can be a real lifesaver during pregnancy, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of leaks during your daily activities. SPC offers a range of products designed to keep you comfortable and dry. Their absorbent underpads and reusable underwear are discreet and reliable, giving you peace of mind during both daytime and nighttime.

SPC’s products are designed for maximum absorbency, so you don’t have to worry about leaks while sleeping or while going about your day. These products are also made with skin-friendly materials that minimize irritation—important when you’re already dealing with so many other changes in your body. Whether you’re looking for a protective pad or a more substantial option like the SPC quilted underpads, there are solutions that can fit your needs throughout pregnancy.

What can you do to prevent or reduce prenatal incontinence?

There are a few lifestyle changes and habits that can help reduce the likelihood or severity of prenatal incontinence. First, remember to practice good posture. As your belly grows, it can be easy to slouch, which puts even more pressure on your bladder. Standing or sitting up straight can help relieve some of that pressure and make it easier to control your bladder.

Secondly, avoid holding your urine for long periods. This can strain your bladder muscles and make them weaker over time, increasing the risk of leaks. Make sure to use the bathroom regularly, and don’t ignore the urge to go, especially as your pregnancy progresses.

Finally, consider wearing breathable, absorbent underwear or pads as a precaution. It can help prevent accidents from becoming bigger problems, especially when you're on the go or socializing. Using SPC incontinence products, which are designed with comfort and absorbency in mind, can make a big difference in your daily routine.

When should you see a doctor?

If your incontinence gets worse or you notice that you’re experiencing more frequent or painful leaks, it’s always a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider. Sometimes incontinence is a sign of an underlying issue that might need more specialized treatment. However, for most women, prenatal incontinence is simply a temporary condition that improves after childbirth.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.