Post-Baby Giggle Pee

October 28, 2008 at 6:30 AM by Cafe Kristen - Comments (4)

Urinary incontinence is common post-baby.

A few months, or even a year, after you've had a baby, you might notice wetness when you sneeze, cough, exercise, laugh or have sex. My husband calls it Giggle Pee, but it's certainly nothing to get all funny about.

Yesterday, an anonymous CafeMom asked about her issues with postpartum urinary incontinence. She should not feel embarrassed. One-third of us who've given birth vaginally have been there. Luckily, there are easy, at-home solutions that don't involve wearing a pad or diaper.

The people who brought us What to Expect When You're Expecting offer up some great info on what causes Giggle Pee.

Mainly, weak pelvic floor muscles are to blame. Strengthen them with the advice below:

• Do your Kegels, do your Kegels, do your Kegels! They work.
• Lose weight. (Sigh.) Fewer pounds put less pressure on your bladder.
• Urinate every 30 minutes. This helps re-train your bladder. Be sure to go before you have the urge.
  
• Avoid constipation. Full bowels also put pressure on your bladder.
• Avoid coffee, citrus, tomatoes, soft drinks, and alcohol. They are all irritating to your bladder.
  
• Squeeze when you sneeze. Do Kegels or cross your legs when you feel the need to cough or sneeze, or when you're about to laugh or lift something heavy.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I gotta go.

Do you have advice for women who are going through this right now?

FILED UNDER: obgyn