Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it comes with its fair share of challenges— morning sickness, weird food cravings, aversion to your favourite foods, tiredness and some lesser-known symptoms such as ... frequent urination.
If you find yourself making countless trips to the bathroom, don't worry - you're not alone. In this blog, we will explore the link between frequent urination and pregnancy and provide you with valuable tips to find relief and improve your comfort during this special time.
Understanding the Link: Why Does Pregnancy Cause Frequent Urination?
During pregnancy, your body undergoes various hormonal and physical changes. One such change is the increased blood flow to the kidneys, leading to increased urine production. Additionally, as your baby grows, they exert pressure on your bladder, causing the need to urinate more frequently or even experience urine leakage during pregnancy.
Hydration and Frequent Urination: Finding the Balance
Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, but it can contribute to more frequent urination in women during pregnancy. Finding a balance is key. Sip water throughout the day instead of chugging large amounts at once and consider reducing fluid intake before bedtime to minimize night-time disruptions.
Bladder Training Techniques for Pregnant Women
Bladder training techniques can help train your bladder to hold urine for longer periods, reducing the frequency of bathroom visits. Start by gradually increasing the time between trips to the bathroom and practicing pelvic floor exercises every day to strengthen your muscles to improve bladder control.
Avoiding Irritants: Foods and Drinks to Limit for Reduced Urination
How to control frequent urination in pregnancy simply? Some foods and drinks can irritate the bladder and increase urination frequency. Consider reducing your intake of caffeine, citrus fruits, spicy foods, and carbonated drinks. Opt for bladder-friendly alternatives to minimize irritation and reduce the urge to urinate.
Frequent Urination at Night in Females: Minimizing Disruptions for Better Sleep
Getting enough sleep during pregnancy is extremely important, but frequent night-time urination can keep you running to the bathroom at night. To minimize disturbances, limit fluid intake before bedtime, empty your bladder completely before sleep, and consider using maternity pillows for improved comfort and support.
Additionally, you can consider wearing adult diapers during night-time to prevent any urine leaks at night or if you simply do not want to inconvenience yourself at night. Try Friends Overnight Diapers that can absorb nearly 1.5 litres of liquid and keep you super dry and comfortable at night.
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening Your Muscles for Improved Bladder Control
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, can strengthen the muscles that support the bladder. Regular practice can improve bladder control, reduce urine leakage, and help you regain control over your urinary function during pregnancy.
To find your pelvic floor muscles, while urinating stop mid-flow. The muscles you just used to do this are your pelvic floor muscles that help in bladder control. Now, clench these muscles tightly for 3-6 seconds. Make sure you are only engaging these muscles and not clenching your buttocks, thighs or any other muscle group. Now relax the very same muscles for 3-6 seconds. DO this about 10 times at least twice every day.
Clothing Choices: Comfortable and Convenient Options for Women during Frequent Urination
Choosing loose-fitting and comfortable clothing can make bathroom trips easier and more convenient. Opt for maternity pants with elastic waistbands, loose dresses, or clothing with easy-to-use fasteners for quick and hassle-free access to the bathroom.
Bathroom Access: Plan and Find Convenient Locations
Planning ahead and identifying easily accessible bathrooms can relieve you of the stress of needing to find a restroom urgently. Identify restroom locations in places you frequently visit, carry a portable urination device if you can, and communicate your needs with supportive people around you.
Supportive Tools: Using Pregnancy-Specific Urinary Products
Pregnancy-specific urinary products, such as Friends Maternity Pads or Friends Adult Diapers can provide additional support and protection against urine leakage while coughing during pregnancy. These products can help you feel more confident and comfortable during pregnancy.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While frequent urination is common during pregnancy, certain symptoms may indicate a potential issue. If you experience pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine, fever, or persistent urine leakage, consult your healthcare professional for guidance and treatment.
With the right strategies and lifestyle modifications, you can find relief from constantly leaking urine during pregnancy. Remember to consult with your healthcare professional if you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms. Embrace this special time in your life while finding ways to alleviate the challenges that come with it. Wishing you a healthy and comfortable pregnancy journey!
