Tips to avoid or improve leaking or incontinence problems following childbirth
It’s a common problem among new mums that they can experience some weakness in their pelvic floor. This is from a mixture of hormones, the delivery and the physical pressure of the baby on the pelvic floor throughout the pregnancy. So ladies who have delivered by c-section are not immune!
Here are 7 easy tips to help reduce your incidence of incontinence if you are having problems:
- 1.Reduce your intake of caffeine (gradually) as caffeine can increase the need to pass urine
- 2.Eat a high fibre diet to prevent constipation
- 3.Turn on your pelvic floor muscles when you cough or sneeze
- 4.Maintain a healthy weight
- 5.Avoid drinking just before you go to bed
- 6.Try to go to the toilet when you feel the urge not “just in case”
- 7.Practice your pelvic floor exercises for 2 mins a day – and don’t stop
If you find things are not improving then an assessment with a Women’s Health Physiotherapist is advised. Regaining the strength of your pelvic and abdominal muscles post-pregnancy is essential to help prevent incontinence and back or pelvic pain. If you are not keen for an examination ”down there” then the latest technology of Real-time Ultrasound allows a Physiotherapist view your pelvic floor and tummy muscles on a screen to assess their strength and teach you how to properly activate them. It is certainly something most post-pregnancy ladies find worthwhile.
If you would like to book in to see one of our Women’s Health Physios – BOOK ONLINE NOW HERE or CALL 99683424