Do you have to make sure that you use the bathroom right before leaving the house no matter what? Do you have to make sure you use the bathroom at the grocery store as soon as you get there? Or right before you leave? Or do you have to rush to the bathroom whether at home or in public more than you would like?
You don’t have to be pregnant or immediately postpartum to notice the sudden need to go to the bathroom. Although this may be common, it still is not normal!
Being continent means that you can hold urine in and let it out when you choose. To have full control of your bladder, you require a properly functioning nervous system and lower urinary tract. There should not be a need to strain or push when passing urine. Having to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night if under 55-60 years of age is abnormal and if fluid intake is normal, most people will void 5-8 times per day.
Healthy muscles in the bladder and the pelvic floor silently do their job and allow us to function daily without interruption. 1 in 4 women experience urinary incontinence, however only 1 in 12 seek care from a healthcare provider. This may be due to embarrassment or believing it to be normal. Bladder leakage can also lead to social consequences, such as: decreased self-esteem, depression, isolation, impeded social activity and impeded physical activity. Risk factors include: being female, obesity, post menopausal, pregnancy, birth, obstetric trauma, chronic illness, medication, smoking and chronic straining.
Urge urinary incontinence (UUI) is the sudden and compelling need to void the bladder. This can be a large or small amount of urine, but ultimately it occurs when you do not have the ability to delay going to the bathroom. UUI can sometimes be more common up to 6 weeks postpartum due to pelvic trauma from vaginal birth. Urinary frequency, also referred to as overactive bladder, can also be common.
Like I mentioned earlier, these types of symptoms are common, but not normal! If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please download and fill out the PHC Bladder Diary. Once filled out, please email it to dr.sarah@pinnaclehillchiropractic and I will be in touch!
