Okay… so (ahem) I’ve heard that sometimes after child birth women can’t control pee from leaking in between bathroom visits. If you have experience what is known as stress incontinence — a.k.a. peeing your pants — Breezy Mama turned to Dr. David Adler, Obstetrics & Gynecology, who appeared on Discovery channel TV show, “Make Room For Baby” for advice on fixing the, um, leak(s).
Why is it so common for urine to leak once a woman has had a baby?
Woman are 3 times more likely to experience urinary leaks after having a child. This happens because the vaginal birth canal is expanded during pregnancy, leading to the stretching of the nerves and ligaments that ultimately causes weakened support of the bladder.
Do Kegels help?
Absolutely. Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic muscles and increase control of the bladder. If you do not get the muscle strength back after each baby, you are more likely to experience urine leakage.
Can you review the best steps for a Kegel?
1. Sit or lay down.
2. Try to contract the muscles that you would use to end urine flow.
3. Once you have the contraction down, tense the pelvic muscles for 3 seconds and relax for 3 seconds.
4. Repeat this process 10-12 times per session.
5. The more the better! Performing these exercises up to 3 times per day. will increase your progress.
Is there anything else a woman can do to stop urine from leaking?
In addition to working out the pelvic muscles to improve muscular control, it may also help to limit caffeine and carbonated beverages.
I’ve heard there’s surgery, what does this entail? And which doctor performs it — an OB or urologist?
There is surgery that works to cure incontinence.If other treatments like pelvic floor muscle exercises haven’t worked to control your incontinence, surgery may be an option. What kind of surgery you have depends on your preference, your health, and your doctor’s experience. Consider consulting a doctor if the issue does not improve after a few months of kegel exercises.
Why are women more likely to pee when jumping rather than running?
Because jumping creates more shock to the bladder and the surrounding muscles than running, it often causes urinary leakage more easily.
Is there a solution for women who find they have to go pee more often than most?
Frequent urination can be caused by a number of things ranging from stress to more physiological causes. It is best to consult with your doctor before determining a course of corrective action.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Urinary incontinence is one of the last medical taboos. According to the World Health Organisation, urinary incontinence affects around one in three women worldwide. So, don’t be embarrassed if you are suffering from UI and consult with a doctor to determine the best course of action for improvement!
About David Adler
David Adler, DO, FACOG is Board Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland and earned a Master’s in Health Administration. He earned his medical degree with High Honors at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. He attended residency in OB-GYN and was recognized as Chief Resident at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. After practicing OB-GYN in New Jersey, he relocated to South Florida, and has cared for patients in Palm Beach for over 12 years. Dr Adler was Department Chair of OB-GYN and participated on the Medical Executive Committee at Palms West Hospital. He is a member of many hospital and surgery center committees. He has lectured extensively on topics in Obstetrics & Gynecology.Considered one of Florida’s leading OB-GYN surgeons, Dr Adler utilizes the daVinci robotic system to perform advanced laparoscopic procedures. He embraces the rapidly changing medical technologies to improve patient care and outcomes. He is recognized as an advanced reconstructive and pelvic support surgeon. He is skilled in doing endometrial ablation, tubal ligation, hysteroscopy, myomectomy and surgery for urinary incontinence.Having delivered over 3500 babies, Dr Adler has the experience to manage both routine and high risk pregnancies. He incorporates the most progressive ultrasound techniques and genetic testing to ensure the best possible pregnancy. He was featured on the Discovery channel TV show, “Make Room For Baby.”Dr Adler always puts his heart, as well as his knowledge and expertise, into caring for his patients. He offers a warm, sensitive approach to women’s health. He lives in Wellington with his wife of 23 years and his two sons. He looks forward to serving the community.
