Bowel and bladder incontinence in pregnancy
Leaking urine when you sneeze, laugh, or can’t quite make it to the toilet in time isn’t something many discuss openly, but incontinence in pregnancy is incredibly common. In fact, about 1 in 3 women who’ve had a baby have experienced bladder leakage at some point.
Pregnancy places a lot of demand on the pelvic floor muscles that support your bladder and bowel. As your baby grows, this extra pressure can make it harder to control when you go.
A women’s health physiotherapist can help you manage bowel and bladder changes and stay in control with confidence.
Symptoms of bladder or bowel incontinence in pregnancy
We help women experiencing:
- Leaking urine when you laugh, cough, sneeze, or exercise
- Needing to go to the toilet more often or urgently
- Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder or bowel
- Difficulty controlling wind or bowel motions
- A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area
What’s involved in a physiotherapy consultation?
Often, it’s the pelvic floor that’s often responsible for incontinence in pregnancy. So, our consultations include a pelvic floor assessment. This is a thorough evaluation conducted by a specialised physiotherapist to understand your specific needs and develop an effective treatment plan for your bladder and bowel incontinence. Here’s what to expect:
Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process, aiming for the best possible outcomes.
Women's health clinic with a difference
Too often, women don’t feel supported or heard – and we’re here to change the narrative. We combine our expertise with a heartfelt approach to ensure you feel understood and cared for in every session.
Bladder and bowel incontinence FAQs
How can a physiotherapist help with bowel or bladder incontinence when pregnant?
Pregnancy places a lot of demand on your pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support your bladder and bowel and play a crucial role in continence.
A women’s health physiotherapist can assess how your pelvic floor is functioning and help you improve control, strength, and coordination.
We’ll also guide you through toileting posture, healthy bladder and bowel habits, and breathing techniques to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor as your pregnancy progresses. The goal is to help you stay comfortable and confident throughout pregnancy and set you up for recovery after birth too.
How do I prepare for my physiotherapy session?
Consider your symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life currently. You may like to keep a diary of your symptoms and your daily habits. Bringing a list of your questions and concerns can also be beneficial. Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement.
What if I have my period?
If you are comfortable attending your appointment, our physios are also comfortable to continue with your session. If you feel more comfortable to wait until your period is over, we can also easily reschedule for another date.
Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist for incontinence when pregnant?
No, you don’t need a referral or doctor’s clearance to see us. Our experienced practitioners are skilled in managing various medical conditions and will ensure all activities are safe and suitable for your situation. We collaborate closely with Brisbane Pelvic Floor Specialists and Gynecologists and are happy to coordinate with them to support your rehabilitation.
Take the First Step Toward Pelvic Girdle Pain Relief
Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or simply not feeling like yourself, the right support can make a meaningful difference. Our women’s health physios take the time to understand your experience and work with you to reduce pain and improve movement.