Frequent Urination During Pregnancy: Causes, Management, and Relief

Highlights

• Frequent urination means needing to urinate more often than usual.
• It is normal and caused by hormonal and physical changes in your body.
• While you can’t do much to reduce the frequency, strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help.

In This Article

• Frequent urination during pregnancy
• Causes of frequent urination during pregnancy
• When frequent urination is most likely to occur during pregnancy
• How to reduce frequent urination during pregnancy
• Possible serious conditions related to frequent urination
• Frequency of urination after childbirth
• Tools and Assistance

Frequent urination during pregnancy

Frequent urination during pregnancy means you need to urinate more often than normal. It is a common occurrence caused by changes in your body. It may cause discomfort but usually isn’t a cause for concern.

Causes of frequent urination during pregnancy

Frequent urination during pregnancy is mainly caused by:

• Hormonal Changes: Early in pregnancy, hormones affect your kidneys, increasing blood flow and urine production.
• Physical Changes: As the uterus grows, it puts pressure on the bladder, limiting its capacity. The larger the baby gets, the more pressure builds up, leading to more frequent urination.

Additionally, weak pelvic floor muscles can also contribute to more frequent trips to the bathroom.

When frequent urination is most likely to occur during pregnancy

Frequent urination can occur at any stage of pregnancy.

• In the first trimester, hormonal changes increase the need to use the toilet.
• In the second and third trimesters, the growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder and bowel. This can make it harder to completely empty your bladder.
• In the last weeks of pregnancy, you might experience urinary leakage when you cough, sneeze, or lift things. These actions put more pressure on your pelvic floor, which can weaken during pregnancy.

How to reduce frequent urination during pregnancy

While you can’t prevent the frequent urge to urinate, you can strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

Strengthening these muscles helps you “hold in” urine until you can reach the bathroom.

The best way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles is by doing exercises regularly.

You can start pelvic floor exercises before pregnancy, but it’s never too late to begin. Be sure to continue after your baby is born.

Possible serious conditions related to frequent urination

Although frequent urination is normal during pregnancy, certain symptoms require attention:

• If you experience a stinging or burning feeling when urinating or any pain, it could indicate a urinary infection, which needs to be treated.
• If you suspect that your amniotic fluid (the water around your baby) is leaking, contact your doctor or midwife immediately.

Frequency of urination after childbirth

You may continue to urinate more often after childbirth. This is because it takes time for your pelvic floor muscles to recover.

Some people see improvement in 3 to 6 months after delivery.

Others may take longer to recover.

Keep up with pelvic floor exercises to aid recovery. Your midwife can guide you on what to expect during this time.

Tools and Assistance

• Pelvic floor exercises: Regular pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, are key for strengthening the muscles that support the bladder and help control urination. Start gradually, and over time you can increase the number of repetitions as you build strength.
• Hydration management: Ensure you’re drinking enough water to stay hydrated, but consider spacing out your fluid intake throughout the day to manage the frequency of urination. Avoid drinking large quantities of liquid right before bed to reduce the likelihood of waking up during the night.
• Scheduled bathroom visits: Setting regular intervals for bathroom visits can help reduce the urgency. This proactive approach might help avoid the discomfort of feeling like you always have to go.
• Comfortable clothing: Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can reduce pressure on the bladder and pelvic area, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
• Rest: Adequate rest and sleep are essential for overall health, including maintaining bladder function and minimizing stress that can exacerbate symptoms.
• Dietary adjustments: Eating a balanced diet that includes fiber-rich foods can help prevent constipation, which can add to the feeling of urgency. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support regular bowel movements.
• Physical activity: Light physical activity, such as walking, can help improve pelvic floor muscle tone and reduce pressure on the bladder. Regular exercise during pregnancy is beneficial for overall health.

By combining these approaches, you can better manage frequent urination and the discomfort that comes with it during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or dietary routine.