How does pregnancy affect pelvic floor dysfunction?
Pregnancy is a major factor in developing urinary stress incontinence. Many women who leak urine when they cough, laugh, sneeze, or lift heavy objects begin having the problem late in pregnancy. This is probably the result of the extra weight of the uterus and baby on the pelvic floor. Most women who experience urinary incontinence in pregnancy continue to have it after birth as well. Almost all women, though, will recover in the months after birth. Very few women still have serious problems 6 months to a year later. You can reduce the likelihood of having urinary incontinence by undertaking a program of pelvic floor exercises (kegel exercises) in pregnancy or after your birth. These can help prevent, relieve, or reduce urinary incontinence.
