Everyone knows how much of a blessing a newborn can be. What people don’t talk about is the impact childbirth can have on new mothers. Obviously, after giving birth, your body goes through major physical changes. One unexpected challenge is postpartum incontinence. If you’re experiencing bladder leaks when coughing, laughing, exercising, or rushing to the bathroom, you’re not alone, and some solutions can help.

Postpartum urinary incontinence is common, affecting nearly one in three women after childbirth. While this experience can feel frustrating, the good news is that it’s common and treatable. Understanding what causes postpartum incontinence, recognizing the symptoms, and learning about your treatment options can help you feel informed and confident moving forward.

What Causes Postpartum Incontinence?

Postpartum incontinence is most often caused by weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles, nerves, and connective tissues that support the bladder. These structures can become stretched or strained during pregnancy and childbirth, particularly during vaginal delivery.

Common Postpartum Incontinence Causes and Risk Factors Include:

  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Weakness: During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, the growing uterus places prolonged pressure on the muscles that control bladder function.
  • Vaginal Delivery: Vaginal birth is one of the most common risk factors for postpartum urinary incontinence. As the baby passes through the birth canal, pelvic muscles and nerves can stretch or tear.
  • Hormonal Changes: Increased progesterone during pregnancy relaxes muscles and ligaments to prepare for childbirth, which can reduce bladder support.
  • Labor and Delivery Factors: Long or difficult labor, induced labor, forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, and large baby size may  increase the likelihood  of pelvic floor injury.
  • Increased Abdominal Pressure: Obesity, chronic constipation, or frequent coughing places added strain on the bladder.
  • Other Risk Factors: Smoking, genetic predisposition to weaker connective tissue, and experiencing incontinence during pregnancy.

What Are Some Common Postpartum Incontinence Symptoms to Look Out For?

Postpartum urinary incontinence symptoms can range from mild and occasional to more frequent and disruptive. Paying attention to early signs can help you explore treatment options sooner and aid in a faster recovery.

Key Postpartum Incontinence Symptoms Include:

  • Stress Incontinence: The most common symptom is involuntary urine leakage when coughing, sneezing, laughing, jumping, lifting, or exercising.
  • Urge Incontinence: A sudden, intense urge to urinate that may result in leakage before reaching the bathroom.
  • Mixed Incontinence: A combination of both stress and urge symptoms.

Additional Symptoms:

  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
  • Burning or discomfort while urinating
  • In rare cases, fecal leakage

While postpartum incontinence often improves with time, symptoms that persist beyond the postpartum recovery period or begin to interfere with daily life should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

How Can You Treat Postpartum Incontinence?

Most cases of postpartum incontinence improve within six to twelve months with conservative treatment. The primary focus is strengthening pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder habits, and reducing pressure on the bladder.

Common Postpartum Incontinence Treatment Options Include:

  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
      • Kegel Exercises: Targeted exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the bladder and uterus.
      • Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Specialized therapists provide guided exercises for optimal recovery.
      • Biofeedback: Helps identify and properly engage the correct pelvic muscles.
  • Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes
    • Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages
    • Maintain healthy hydration
    • Gradual weight management if recommended
    • Avoid smoking, which irritates the bladder and causes chronic coughing
    • Bladder training: Scheduled bathroom visits with increasing time intervals

What Are Medical Treatments For Persistent Incontinence Symptoms?

  • Pessaries: Vaginal devices that support the bladder
  • Medications: For overactive bladder symptoms
  • Neuromodulation: Nerve stimulation therapies for severe or long-term cases

Always consult a healthcare provider if symptoms are severe, painful, or not improving over time. For some people, additional medical options may be recommended.

What Are Some of The Best Postpartum Incontinence Supplies?

Using the right postpartum incontinence supplies can greatly reduce stress, improve comfort, and help you feel supported while your body heals.

Recommended Incontinence Supplies Include:

  • Disposable Absorbent Underwear: Designed specifically for bladder leaks with odor control, secure fit, and discreet protection.
  • Protective Pads and Liners: Ideal for lighter leaks or additional backup throughout the day.
  • Skin-Friendly Materials: Breathable, soft products that minimize irritation during postpartum recovery.
  • Many postpartum incontinence supplies are considered medically necessary and may be covered by Medicaid or private insurance when you qualify.

How Neb Medical Services Can Help Relieve Postpartum Incontinence Stress? 

At Neb Medical Services, we understand how overwhelming postpartum recovery can feel, especially when managing bladder control concerns. That’s why we make it simple to get the incontinence supplies you need, covered by insurance, while offering support every step of the way. See If You Qualify Here

Why Choose Neb Medical Services?

  • In-network with most major insurance providers
  • Medicaid and insurance billing handled for you
  • Discreet home delivery
  • High-quality, comfortable incontinence supplies
  • Personalized support to help you choose the right products

Simply select the supplies you need, and we’ll bill your insurance company directly so you can focus on healing and caring for your baby.

If you’re experiencing postpartum incontinence, you don’t have to manage it alone. Check your insurance eligibility and get the postpartum incontinence supplies you need with Neb Medical Services today.

See If You Qualify Here – Order Incontinence and Mobility Supplies Covered by Insurance